Empower Uganda's youth by harnessing technology to end GBV

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OPINION

"She said no, but no one listened. In her village, silence was tradition, and pain was private. But one friend with a phone and a voice can change everything.

By Mercy Akankunda

Uganda’s young generation stands at a turning point. With over 72% of the population under 30, this fierce and digital force holds the power to disrupt the cycle of gender-based violence (GBV). The scars of GBV run deep, 95% of women in Uganda face physical or sexual abuse in their lifetime, and 55.5% of girls aged 15–59 endure partner violence, according to UN Women. But where old systems fail, young minds can rise.

Change can start in conversations. In classrooms, at chapati stalls, in village corners, myths like “she provoked it” can be unlearned. A student in Jinja challenged harmful thinking just by starting an honest dialogue with peers. That ripple reached beyond his circle. Young people have the power to shift culture not by confrontation, but by reframing it, calling it strength to protect, not shame to silence.

Digital tools offer a new kind of resistance. Smartphones, data bundles, and library Wi-Fi can become channels for change. In 2024, hashtags like #EndGBVUganda cut stigma by 10% in some areas, according to UNDP. A single reel from Mbale about saying “no” was shared 200 times, sparking community conversations. TikToks in Luganda, X threads, or a powerful WhatsApp status, any of these can spark awareness. Even tight on data? A single free post can go far.

Culture shifts when consent is understood. And young people can lead that shift in language that resonates. A village youth group might say, “Don’t grab someone’s matooke, so don’t ignore a ‘no.” Clubs in Soroti reached dozens in a month with lessons on consent using local lingo and laughter. Free toolkits from organisations like Raising Voices are already out there, youth just need to use them creatively. 

Some survivors won’t speak up, but young allies can make the first move. Sharing a hotline number. Connecting someone to an LC or local counsellor. Listening without judgment. In Arua, one young man quietly helped his cousin access support. With only 24% of the 2024 GBV budget funded, official systems are stretched thin. Sometimes, a single act of kindness makes the difference.

Collective action magnifies the message. A mural in Gulu drew 1,000 eyes, according to local reports. Music, poetry, school debates, even radio shoutouts, these platforms are free and powerful. A group of friends can start a Plan International club or build their own. A verse in a Luganda rap, a phone camera, a loudspeaker in the market, these tools are enough. Culture may say it’s too loud, but framed as protecting sisters and mothers, the message gains support.

Youth-led efforts already show results. UN Women reported a 10% drop in GBV reports in some communities in 2023, thanks to grassroots initiatives. Small steps, shared stories, peer teaching, and creative posts can lay the groundwork for something bigger: a Uganda where respect is the default, not demanded.

Conclusion:

Young Ugandans are already leading the way, challenging harmful norms, creating bold content, and speaking up in places where silence once ruled. But even the most powerful movement needs backup. To fully rise, they must be equipped with the right tools: access to digital resources, safe reporting channels, training in rights and advocacy, and spaces where their voices can grow louder.

This fight can’t rest on passion alone. It needs investment. It needs mentorship. It needs strong policies, working systems, and a society that believes in its young people. With only 24% of the national GBV budget met in 2024, the gap is too wide for youth to cross alone.

Stakeholders, government, NGOs, and community leaders must step in. Fund the shelters. Boost the awareness campaigns. Train youth groups. Make sure every young activist has the tools to protect and empower, both online and offline.

Because when the youth are supported, GBV doesn't stand a chance. Give them the fuel, and they’ll light the path to a safer, stronger Uganda.

The writer is with Proven Foundation