General
Breaking the Silence on Digital and Gender-Based Violence: Male Changemakers Lead Makerere University’s Strides for Change
By Eric Tumwesigye and Cynthia Ayaa Komakec
Introduction
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive and entrenched human rights violations in Uganda. Within institutions of higher learning—spaces intended to cultivate intellectual rigor, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility—GBV persists in both visible and covert forms, often sustained by silence, stigma, and institutional inertia. As Uganda’s oldest and most influential public university, Makerere University bears a dual responsibility: to respond decisively to these challenges and to model transformative, ethical leadership for the nation.
It is within this context that the Strides for Change walk, led by 16 male changemakers during the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, emerges as a strategic and symbolic intervention. The initiative addresses both digital and offline forms of violence against women and girls and aligns with the 2025 global theme, UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls. It reflects a growing recognition that gendered harm increasingly transcends physical boundaries, manifesting in digital spaces in ways that exacerbate the vulnerabilities of female students, staff, and young women across Uganda.
Linking Digital Violence with Physical and Psychological Harm
As Uganda’s digital ecosystem continues to expand, emergent forms of violence have surfaced that intersect with, reinforce, and intensify established patterns of gender-based violence (GBV). Research undertaken by the Makerere University Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), in collaboration with the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), documents the breadth and complexity of online GBV practices prevalent within the Ugandan context. Their study identifies a wide spectrum of digitally mediated abuses, including the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (commonly referred to as revenge pornography), online sexual harassment, cyberbullying, stalking, hacking, doxing, digital surveillance, sexist and degrading commentary, trolling, impersonation, identity theft, and threats circulated through social media platforms (IGDS and WOUGNET, 2021, p. 18).
Crucially, these manifestations of digital violence are not confined to virtual environments. Rather, they produce tangible and often severe consequences that extend into survivors’ offline lives. Empirical evidence indicates that women are disproportionately targeted by online GBV compared to men, reflecting entrenched gendered power asymmetries that are reproduced and amplified within digital spaces (IGDS and WOUGWET, 2021, p. 34). Survivours frequently experience profound psychological harm, including heightened anxiety, depression, chronic fear, and diminished self-esteem (Monteagudo Martinez et al, 2020). In response to persistent victimisation, many withdraw from social, academic, and professional spheres as a protective strategy, while others face significant economic repercussions, such as job loss or reduced income, arising from stigma, reputational damage, and trauma.
Within university settings, the consequences of digital violence may escalate further, in some instances culminating in threats of, or exposure to, physical harm (Pew Research Center, 2014). Oksanen et al. (2022) demonstrate that online hostility and harassment within academic environments are associated with acute psychological distress and deteriorating social relations at work. As the authors observe, “victims experienced higher psychological distress and lower perceived social support at work—indicative of social isolation and disengagement in academic roles” (Oksanen et al., 2022, pp. 541–567). Such findings underscore the manner in which sustained online harassment undermines not only individual well-being but also academic participation and institutional belonging.
Similarly, Cassidy, Faucher, and Jackson’s (2017) examination of cyberbullying in higher education institutions highlights the pervasive sense of insecurity engendered by digitally mediated abuse. Their study reports that “victims reported stress, anxiety, and threats to safety, reinforcing that harassment in academic settings is not merely emotional but also threatens well-being” (Cassidy, et al, 2017, p. 888). These dynamics contribute to academic disengagement, social isolation, and long-term reputational damage, with potentially enduring implications for future employment and career trajectories. Taken together, this body of evidence illustrates that digital violence functions as an extension of physical and emotional abuse, forming part of a broader continuum of harm. By eroding women’s psychological health, social participation, academic engagement, and professional prospects, online GBV undermines women’s safety, dignity, and capacity to participate fully in public and academic life. Addressing digital violence, therefore, is not merely a matter of regulating online conduct but a critical component of broader efforts to combat gender-based violence in all its interconnected forms.
The Role of Male Changemakers: Transforming Culture and Accountability
The Strides for Change campaign strategically positions men as visible allies in gender equality advocacy—not to displace women’s lived experiences, but to confront and dismantle patriarchal norms from within. Male changemakers play a pivotal role in advancing cultural transformation and accountability through three interrelated contributions.
First, they reframe gender-based violence (GBV) as a structural and societal concern rather than a “women’s issue,” underscoring its profound implications for human rights, social justice, and national development. This perspective is exemplified by Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentogo, one of the 16 male changemakers commemorated during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Drawing on his experience as an active social media user, he highlights the increasing prevalence of body shaming, slut shaming, and other forms of online abuse that silence girls and women and undermine their meaningful digital participation. He calls on all social media users to recognise, challenge, and reject such harmful language, emphasising that the creation of safe and inclusive online spaces for women is a shared societal responsibility.
Second, male changemakers model positive and accountable masculinities by publicly rejecting norms that equate masculinity with dominance, entitlement, or complicity in abuse. Ugandan musician and producer Navio articulates this stance by acknowledging the cultural power of artistic expression, stating that his lyrics will not perpetuate harm and that consent represents “the rhythm of respect”—not only in creative spaces, but in everyday life. Such public commitments challenge harmful gender norms while offering alternative, ethical frameworks for masculine identity.
Third, male changemakers broaden the reach and effectiveness of advocacy by engaging other men in critical dialogue, often within spaces that women may be unable to access safely or strategically. This engagement is strengthened through intellectual and academic platforms, including presentations at the Makerere University Men’s Forum, where evolving scholarship on masculinity is examined and translated into practical strategies for social transformation. Through this combination of peer engagement, cultural influence, and scholarly reflection, male changemakers contribute meaningfully to the collective effort to prevent GBV and advance gender justice.
Institutional Commitments to Gender Equality and the Elimination of Sexual Harassment
Through the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), Makerere University continues to demonstrate institutional leadership in advancing gender equality and addressing sexual harassment. The launch of the Strides for Change campaign reaffirmed the University’s commitment to the following priority areas:
Strengthening Reporting and Accountability Mechanisms
Makerere University has established confidential, survivour-centred reporting and redress systems to ensure the timely investigation and adjudication of GBV cases. These mechanisms enforce stringent sanctions, including disciplinary action, against individuals who engage in sexual exploitation, harassment, or the solicitation of sexual favours in exchange for academic or professional advancement. The GMD supports the continuous operationalisation and improvement of these accountability frameworks.
Expanding Psychosocial and Legal Support for Survivours
The University is committed to enhancing access to high-quality psychosocial care, legal aid, and referral services for survivours of GBV. The GMD coordinates capacity-building initiatives for service providers and strengthens partnerships with relevant institutions to ensure comprehensive and survivours-centred support.
Institutionalising Male Allyship and Transformative Engagement
Makerere University is advancing a structured approach to male allyship by formalising male and female champion networks that collaborate in dialogue, advocacy, and behavioural change initiatives. This includes integrating men into gender training programmes and encouraging visible public commitments, such as participation in the Strides for Change walk. The GMD leads the design, implementation, and evaluation of these transformative engagement strategies.
Conclusion
Makerere University’s Strides for Change walk and the male changemakers programme, implemented in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden and the United Nations Population Fund, represent a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence. By confronting the interconnected realities of digital and physical violence, addressing entrenched patterns of sexual harassment, and mobilising male allies as agents of change, the University sets a compelling precedent for institutional and national transformation.
Ending GBV is not solely a policy imperative; it is a cultural, structural, and ethical commitment. These initiatives align with Makerere University’s broader strategic commitment to inclusive excellence, ethical leadership, and safeguarding the well-being of its academic community.
When men stand in solidarity with women, when institutions centre survivours voices, and when society collectively rejects the normalisation of violence, Uganda moves closer to a future in which every woman and girl can pursue her aspirations free from fear, intimidation, and harm. The Strides for Change campaign is therefore more than a march—it is a call to conscience, a model for action, and a promise of a safer and more just society for generations to come.
Acknowledgement
The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University, extends its appreciation to the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and all development partners who participated in the Strides for Change walk and the series of activities conducted during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a comprehensive, 360-degree approach towards achieving zero tolerance for gender-based violence.
References:-
- Cassidy Wanda, Faucher Chantal and Jackson Margaret (2017): Adversity in University: Cyberbullying and Its Impacts on Students, Faculty and Administrators, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health journal, Article 14(8) page 888
- Institute of Women and Development Studies and Women of Uganda Network (2021): Not Just a Trend: Assessing the Types, Spread and the Impact of Online Gender Based Violence in Uganda, Research Report.
- Monteagudo Martinez (2020): Cyberbullying in the University Setting. Relationship With Emotional Problems and Adaptation to the University, Frontiers in Psychology journal, Article: 10:3074
- Oksanen et al. (2022) — Hate and harassment in academia: the rising concern of the online environment, Vol. 84, pages 541 – 567
- Pew Research Center (2014): Part 4: The Aftermath of Online Harassment, Pew Research Center, Published on October 22, 2014
Eric Tumwesigye and Cynthia Ayaa Komakec are the Senior Gender Officer and Gender Officer respectively at the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University
Makerere University has once again cemented its place as a regional leader in academic excellence after successfully hosting the East African Universities Debate Championships (EAUDC) 2026, welcoming the continent’s brightest young minds for a week of intellectual competition, cultural exchange, and leadership development.
Held from 26th July to 1st August 2026, the championship brought together more than 200 student debaters, adjudicators and delegates from 25 universities across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and other invited institutions, transforming the Ivory Tower into East Africa’s premier arena for ideas, innovation and public discourse.
The week-long tournament featured rigorous British Parliamentary debate rounds, public speaking competitions, adjudication workshops and networking sessions designed to sharpen critical thinking, leadership and persuasive communication. Participants debated contemporary issues ranging from governance and economic transformation to technology, public health, climate change and Africa’s future.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor welcomed delegates to Makerere University, emphasizing the institution’s enduring commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also capable of leading meaningful conversations that shape society. The championship reflected Makerere’s vision of producing graduates who are innovative, analytical and prepared to address regional and global challenges.
Beyond competition, EAUDC 2026 became a celebration of East African unity. Delegates experienced Uganda’s rich cultural heritage through social events, campus tours and cultural showcases that fostered friendships beyond national borders. The interactions reinforced the championship’s belief that dialogue remains one of the strongest foundations for regional integration and peaceful cooperation.
The tournament concluded with an electrifying Grand Finale witnessed by students, alumni, university leaders, invited guests and debate enthusiasts. The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Sports Hon. Eng. Cuthbert Abigaba represented the Speaker of Parliament as the Guest of Honour. In his remarks he congratulated Makerere University on the successful event and encouraged debate among students.
Prof Sarah Ssali the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs at Makerere University pledged continuous support from the administration towards Makerere Debate Union. Teams demonstrated exceptional research, analytical reasoning and eloquence before a distinguished panel of international adjudicators, bringing to a close one of the most competitive editions of the championship.
The successful hosting of EAUDC 2026 marks another milestone in Makerere University‘s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for debating and public speaking. The event builds on the university’s long-standing tradition of producing outstanding debaters while providing students with opportunities to engage with peers from across the region in meaningful intellectual exchange.
As the championship drew to a close, participants departed Kampala with new friendships, stronger networks and renewed inspiration to continue using debate as a tool for leadership, democratic participation and social transformation.
With the East African chapter successfully concluded, attention now turns to the Pan-African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC) 2026, where Makerere University will once again represent East Africa on the continental stage.
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