In Adjumani District, Uganda, where South Sudanese refugees live alongside host communities, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a persistent and deeply rooted challenge. The Communities Care project, implemented by the Women’s Refugee Commission in partnership with Makerere University School of Public Health and Reproductive Health Uganda, set out to address this issue by transforming harmful social norms and improving access to survivor-centered services. A baseline evaluation conducted in August 2024 offers critical insights into the realities faced by women, girls, and other vulnerable groups in this context.
The study revealed that while more than half of respondents had heard of GBV, understanding of sexual violence was significantly lower. Only 44 percent demonstrated clarity on its forms and consequences, and misconceptions—particularly among adolescent boys—remained widespread. Physical and emotional abuse were the most commonly recognized forms of violence, often linked to poverty, alcohol use, and food insecurity. Adolescent girls showed greater awareness, but stigma and cultural taboos continued to hinder open discussion and disclosure.
Access to services was alarmingly limited. Just five percent of participants were aware of GBV programs in their communities, and only 2.1 percent knew of services specifically addressing sexual violence. While health facilities, police, and humanitarian agencies were identified as key actors, safe spaces for survivors were rarely mentioned. Many respondents cited fear of stigma, delayed disclosure, and lack of information as major barriers to seeking help.
Despite these gaps, the study found encouraging signs of change. Attitudes toward gender equality were relatively positive, with nearly three-quarters of respondents expressing support for equitable norms. Intervention sites showed stronger support than comparison sites, suggesting that targeted programming may already be influencing community perspectives. Participants also reported a general sense of safety, though they acknowledged that women, girls, and persons with disabilities faced heightened risks.
Focus group discussions revealed a willingness to challenge harmful practices, especially when engaged through participatory methods such as theater, role play, and community dialogue. Village Health Teams and youth leaders were seen as trusted figures who could help facilitate access to care and promote accountability. The report recommends expanding safe spaces, strengthening referral pathways, and involving men and boys not only as potential perpetrators but as allies in prevention and protection.
The Communities Care baseline evaluation underscores the urgent need for tailored, community-led interventions that address both normative change and service delivery. In a district shaped by displacement, resource constraints, and cultural complexity, the path forward must be inclusive, empathetic, and grounded in local realities. As Adjumani continues its journey toward gender justice, the voices and experiences captured in this report offer both a sobering reflection and a hopeful roadmap for transformative action.
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