Uganda’s Principal Judge, Jane Frances Abodo, has called for urgent and collective action to end Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), warning that rising cases continue to threaten the safety and rights of women and children across the country.

Speaking during a community sensitization meeting in Nwoya District, Justice Abodo expressed deep concern over increasing incidents of defilement of young girls, violence against women, and forced child marriages. The meeting, organized by the Uganda Law Society in partnership with UN Women under the Justice for Her project, brought together local leaders, community members, and justice sector stakeholders to address the growing crisis.

Justice Abodo emphasized that many perpetrators of such crimes are often known to the victims, including husbands, neighbors, and other members of the community. She firmly stated that taking a 12-year-old girl into marriage is not a cultural practice but a clear violation of the law and fundamental human rights that must be stopped immediately.

She underscored that ending SGBV requires active participation from individuals and communities, particularly through reporting cases to the authorities. According to her, failure to report incidents limits the ability of the justice system to respond effectively and deliver justice to survivors.

The Principal Judge highlighted ongoing efforts by the judiciary and police to improve access to justice and rebuild public trust in reporting mechanisms. Through partnerships under the Justice for Her initiative, measures have been introduced to ensure confidentiality and safety for survivors, including the establishment of private reporting spaces and dedicated complaint books at police stations.

She also pointed to interventions in areas such as Gulu, where special rooms have been set up to provide survivors with dignity and privacy during interviews and case handling. These efforts aim to create a more supportive environment that encourages victims to come forward without fear of stigma or exposure.

Justice Abodo further urged victims and communities to report all cases of SGBV, assuring them that government institutions are committed to providing support and ensuring justice is served. She stressed that empowering women both economically and socially is a key step in addressing the root causes of violence, enabling them to make informed decisions and leave abusive situations.

She concluded by noting that women are the backbone of families and communities and must be supported to live safe, dignified lives free from violence.