MIFUMI, a leading women’s rights organization in Uganda, has concluded a dynamic two-day training workshop in Mbale for its network of Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs), aimed at equipping frontline champions with the knowledge, skills, and tools to respond to cases of gender-based violence (GBV) across the region.
Held under the theme “Centering the Survivor, Holding the Perpetrator Accountable,” the training brought together IDVAs from districts including Budaka, Kween, Bukwo, Tororo, and Mbale. The sessions focused on building a deeper understanding of domestic violence, the responsibilities of community duty bearers, and enhancing survivor-centered service delivery through advice centers and shelters.
Revisiting the Roots of Abuse
Day One of the training emphasized the core concepts of domestic violence, its types—including physical, emotional, economic, and sexual abuse—and its societal roots in patriarchal domination and gender inequality. Through a series of engaging discussions, skits, and role plays, participants reflected on real-life scenarios that revealed the systemic barriers faced by survivors seeking help from local authorities, police, and health facilities.
“We learnt that violence is a tool used to maintain power and control over women,” said Dr. Atuuki Turner, MIFUMI’s Executive Director. “The IDVAs must become the bridge that connects survivors to justice, dignity, and safety.”
Participants recounted harrowing dramatizations where police officers demanded bribes before issuing forms, health workers dismissed survivors’ pain, and local council leaders failed to act. These exercises sparked vibrant feedback sessions, allowing IDVAs to explore strategies for improving survivor experiences and advocating for their rights within the system.
Putting Values into Practice
Day Two shifted focus to the practical application of values such as empathy, accountability, and community mobilization. IDVA champions showcased how their advice centers operate—complete with survivor intake processes, referral maps, and community outreach materials.
Each center shared creative strategies used in their districts to support survivors, such as tailoring programs for economic empowerment, skills training for girls affected by child marriage, and campaigns promoting the return of girls to school. The advice center from Budaka, for instance, demonstrated how they traced and rescued trafficked children with the help of local leaders and parents.
“We believe in walking with the survivor, hand-in-hand, from the moment she speaks out to the point of healing,” said Juliet Tumwebaze, an IDVA from Budaka. “It’s about restoring hope.”
Strengthening the Safety Net
The training also spotlighted the “Haven Shelter,” a secure home for women and children fleeing abuse. Led by shelter coordinator Susan Asuri, participants were taken through the shelter’s daily operations, which include counseling, legal aid, medical referrals, and skills development for survivors in transition.
Susan recounted a case of an eight-year-old survivor of defilement, who was brought to safety and received psychosocial support, medical treatment, and later reintegrated with her family.
“This is not just a shelter,” Susan noted. “It is a place of second chances.”
Calls to Action
Several key themes emerged over the two days:
The need for stronger partnerships between advice centers, duty bearers, and the justice system.
Enhancing documentation of survivor stories to track impact and drive advocacy.
Advocating for zero-cost services for survivors at police and health facilities.
Strengthening community involvement in early identification and prevention of GBV.
Participants committed to returning to their communities not just as responders, but as transformers—armed with renewed vision and solidarity.
As the training concluded, Gloria, a senior facilitator at MIFUMI, reminded the champions, “Your voice, your empathy, and your persistence will shift the culture of silence into one of action.”
About MIFUMI:
MIFUMI is a grassroots women’s rights organisation that works to prevent violence against women and children, support survivors, and build a just and safe society through legal aid, shelter support, and community advocacy.