The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, has called for stronger support systems for Gender Based Violence (GBV) survivors and improved evidence gathering to hold perpetrators accountable.  

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Dr. Winnie Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students, during the launch of the 16 Days Of Activism against Gender-based Violence today (Monday 24^th November 2025), Prof Nawangwe noted that GBV affects everyone and must be confronted collectively.

“Makerere University remains dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive environment and promoting gender equality. Each of us has a role in building a society free from violence.” Prof Nawangwe, noted.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual International campaign that runs from November 25 to December 10, calling for the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls.  The year’s theme is “Men as Changemakers: Unite to End Digital Violence against all women and Girls”.

During the official launch, Makerere University in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) staff members and students, marched together around the University as “Strides for Change”.

From the Main Gate to the Rugby Grounds, participants walked a path that reflected Uganda’s broader journey toward honesty, accountability and transformation. The Strides for Change walk symbolized more than unity; it represented a collective journey from awareness to action.

In his remarks, Mr. Leonard Zulu, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, noted that as Uganda marks 30 years since commitments made at the Beijing Conference, the country must reflect on both progress made and the work that remains.

“The Government of Uganda has made important strides, yet too many women and girls still face barriers to safety, dignity, and opportunity. Changing this reality requires not only strong policies but strong voices voices like yours,” Mr Zulu, said.

During the launch, 16 influential Ugandan men were unveiled as changemakers—a new generation committed to ending all forms of violence, including digital violence, against women and girls. These men come from diverse sectors, including the arts, academia, culture, media, health and youth activism.

Among the male changemakers are Makerere University Staff; Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo and Dr. Amon Ashaba Mwiine, Joseph Beyanga, Douglas Lwanga, Simon Kasyate, Dr. Paul Kasenene, Matthew Nabwiso, Kenneth Kimuli (Pablo), Mark Agaba (Uncle Mark), Daniel Kigozi (Navio), Don Zane Muwanguzi, Lim Ronie.

“To the 16 men lending their influence to this movement—thank you. Your leadership shows young men everywhere that strength is not about dominance, but about dignity. Not about silence, but solidarity,” Mr. Zulu, noted.

In her speech, Ms. Kristine Biokhus, the UNFPA Country representative, highlighted the growing threat of technology-facilitated violence, including cyber-harassment, non-consensual image sharing, and online threats now among the most pervasive forms of GBV.

“Laws alone cannot stop this. Violence has evolved and so must we. This is why we spotlight men as changemakers, because systems shift when influence meets responsibility,” Ms. Biokhus, noted.

In a bid to reduce GBV, Ms. Biokhus, reminded the 16 male champions that their daily actions hold the power to shape a masculinity that uplifts, protects and empowers.

“Zero Violence is Possible. Digital Safety is a Human Right. And Uganda’s future is brighter when we walk forward together side by side in dignity and justice,” Ms. Biokhus, said.

The Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda, Ms. Maria Håkansson, reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to advancing gender equality and ending GBV. She emphasized that gender equality cannot be achieved through policy alone it requires a shift in attitudes, norms, and behaviours.

 “GBV includes the fast-growing threat of technology-facilitated violence, and it requires more than policies, but a shift in norms, attitudes and behavior. Central to this shift is the full engagement of men, because gender equality is not a women’s issue, but a societal one.

She reminded participants that activism must continue beyond the 16 days—it is a daily commitment to dignity, equality, and a Uganda where all women and girls live free from fear.

The launch concluded with an energetic performance from comedians and musicians Kenneth Kimuli (Pablo) and Daniel Kigozi (Navio). Beyond entertainment, they delivered powerful messages to young people.

“It’s time we broke harmful norms, especially those affecting our sisters and mothers. Let’s put an end to GBV in our homes and communities.” Navio, said. The event was attended by Ambassadors from the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Iceland, and Germany, alongside representatives from UNDP, UN Women, and other development partners demonstrating widespread international support for the movement.