Projects

Current International Projects

Uganda - Gender Based Violence and Human Trafficking 

The Social Impact Institute team has been working with colleagues in Uganda since 2013 with a focus on gender-based violence (GBV) and human trafficking. Gender-Based Violence remains a significant issue in Uganda, affecting women, men, and children. It manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, as well as harmful cultural practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). Despite efforts to address the issue, GBV continues to undermine social cohesion, economic progress, and human rights.

Gender-Based Violence Prevalence

GBV is widespread in Uganda, with women and girls disproportionately affected. According to the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2016, about 56% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, and 22% have faced sexual violence. These figures highlight the systemic nature of GBV in both rural and urban areas. Child marriages remain prevalent, with 34% of girls married before the age of 18. Furthermore, during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, GBV cases surged due to factors like restricted movement, financial stress, and disrupted support systems.

Causes of Gender-Based Violence

Cultural Norms and Patriarchy

1. • Traditional gender roles in Uganda often position men as dominant and women as subordinate. This entrenched patriarchy normalizes violence as a means of asserting control over women.

   • Practices like bride price contribute to the perception that women are property, increasing their vulnerability to abuse.

Poverty and Economic Dependence

1. • Economic hardship drives many women into dependence on male partners, reducing their bargaining power and exposing them to abuse. Men facing economic pressure may also resort to violence out of frustration.

Weak Legal and Policy Implementation

1. • Although Uganda has enacted laws like the Domestic Violence Act (2010) and the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act (2009), enforcement remains weak due to corruption, underfunded systems, and inadequate training of law enforcement.

Lack of Awareness and Education

1. • Limited knowledge about human rights and the consequences of GBV contributes to its persistence. Many victims remain silent, fearing stigma or reprisal.

Conflict and Displacement

1. • Prolonged conflicts, especially in Northern Uganda, have left many communities vulnerable. Displaced persons and refugees often face heightened risks of GBV due to weakened social structures and resource scarcity.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse

1. • Alcohol abuse is a significant driver of GBV, as it often exacerbates conflict within households and reduces inhibitions that may otherwise deter violence.

Current Gender-Based Violence Projects

Gender-Based Violence & Human Trafficking Prevention, Intervention and Remediation Programs, Mukono, Bukedea and Soroti Districts

Opucet Village in Soroti 

The overarching goal of this program is to increase human security and decrease risk of human trafficking 

by addressing the structural and gender-based deficits that contribute to vulnerability in a single 

village in Soroti District. This program is in collaboration with colleagues at  Advocacy for Vulnerable 

Children’s Rights in Uganda as well as with other community members in the village of Soroti. The 

primary focus is building the Opucet Health and Counseling Center which will allow easier access to 

health care and counseling to rural populations. In addition, psychoeducational training related to 

healthy relationships, GBV and human trafficking risks will be provided. 

Bukedea Region

This program is in collaboration with colleagues at Advocacy for Vulnerable Children’s Rights in Uganda as

well as with other community members in the Bukedea region. The current objective is to continue to 

provide programming and counseling related to gender-based violence. A longer-term objective is to build 

and staff a shelter for women and children who are survivors of violence. 

Mukono District 

The goal in this region is to raise awareness about the risks of human trafficking, in

particular the sex trafficking of girls and women. Our primary collaborators are volunteer staff with the

Project to End Human Trafficking – Uganda Division and efforts to date focus on outreach to schools.

Current International Projects

Syria 

The Social Impact Institute team is working with colleagues connected to Syria to provide psychoeducation on critical issues such as human trafficking, gender-based violence, and mental health, all of which are essential for empowering Syrian citizens and fostering resilience within communities. 

By raising awareness, individuals can better recognize risks, access support, and protect themselves and their loved ones. Psychoeducation equips citizens with practical knowledge about identifying signs of exploitation and abuse, understanding their rights, and seeking help through local and international resources. 

Additionally, it addresses the importance of mental health by promoting coping strategies, reducing stigma, and encouraging psychological well-being amidst ongoing challenges. This effort contributes to building safer, more informed, and resilient communities.