'More needed to improve women rights protection'

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Despite the Government's progress in promoting gender equality, a considerable portion of the Ugandan population believes that more efforts are needed to improve the protection of women's rights.

The survey released by Afrobarometer, indicates that women are still subjected to numerous pressures and frequently endure their struggles quietly, largely due to the stigma they encounter from spouses, relatives and the communities.

According to the survey, released on October 3, 2024, at Hotel Africana in Kampala, 22% and 14% of women interviewed during the survey reported that they are frequently and consistently hindered from pursuing employment by their spouses or family members, respectively.

Additionally, 10% and 20% of women indicated that they experience sexual harassment in public areas, such as markets and streets, regularly and frequently, respectively.

According to the survey, gender-based violence (GBV) is identified as the most pressing issue related to women's rights that must be addressed by the government and society.

The research, conducted by Hatchile Consult Ltd, surveyed 2,400 adult citizens between January 16 and February 2, 2024.

It explored various dimensions of gender equality, particularly in education, land ownership, employment, leadership, and child rights.

The findings from the survey, titled: Are Social Norms to Blame? Exploring the Grey Area in Safeguarding Women and Child Rights in Uganda, indicates that 54% of Ugandans feel that women who report GBV are likely to face criticism, harassment and shame from their peers.

The promotion of equal rights and opportunities has garnered a positive response from Ugandans, with 82% believing that the Government has performed “fairly well” or “very well” in this area. Nonetheless, 56% of the population feels that additional measures are required. The survey shows that around 69% of citizens agree or strongly agree that women should possess equal rights to own and inherit land.

More than 78% advocate for equal employment opportunities for both men and women, despite ongoing gender disparities in education and full-time employment.

Lagging behind

Francis Kibirige, from Hatchile Consult Ltd, while presenting the survey findings, noted that although there is substantial support for gender equality in employment and land rights, women still trail behind men in asset ownership, educational success, and full-time employment.

The National investigator Areas of interest, Francis Kibirige, speaks during the Barometer meeting held at Hotel Africana. (Photo by Alfred Ochwo)

He also addressed the political landscape, indicating that while the majority reject the idea that "men make better political leaders," many believe that women candidates are likely to face criticism, harassment and issues related to family responsibilities.

He highlighted the troubling reality that a large portion of the survey participants (62%) regard domestic violence as a personal issue to be settled within the family unit. Furthermore, the report reveals that more than four in 10 (43%) perceive child abuse and neglect as widespread in their community.

“More than half (54%) say the Government is doing a poor job of promoting the well-being of vulnerable children,” he added.

Kibirige observed that backing for gender equality and children's rights tends to rise alongside support for democratic principles, favorable perceptions of economic management, low or nonexistent poverty levels, and higher educational achievements.

“We need to support women more like supporting them in democracy, we need to make sure that there are more opportunities for all because democracy doesn’t put food on table until it results in better results,” he noted.

While officiating at the event, former agriculture minister Dr Victoria Ssekitoleko, called on women to always carefully review documents to protect their inheritance rights.

She pointed out the importance of engaging community and religious leaders to address and reform social norms that restrict women's opportunities.

Gender ministry gender and women affairs commissioner, Angella Nakafero, highlighted the urgent need to eradicate detrimental cultural practices that limit the potential of women and girls, as this is crucial for the development of Uganda.