By Joyce Namutebi

THE high level of poverty has increased gender violence, according to the Uganda Human Rights Commission.

“Women are often affected by poverty more than men and this increases their dependency on men for survival and support,” said Grace Akello, a human rights commissioner.

She added that the dependency exposed women to sexual exploitation.

Akello was last Wednesday speaking at the launch of a 16-day campaign against gender-based violence at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Kampala.

She said there was need for the Government to start income-generating activities to help vulnerable women become self-reliant.

“Many victims of gender-based violence are tied to their cultural beliefs and do not report cases.”

Akello said there was need to adopt a human rights-based approach to the prevention of violence, saying this would enhance participation of the victims in decision making.

“The Government and the international community should ensure that victims get physical and psychological rehabilitation, counselling, health and social services.”

Akello urged the UN member states to develop laws that address gender violence.