Combat gender-based violence, Young fathers encouraged
The West Ankole Civil Society Forum(WASCoF) has launched the “Real Father” project specifically targeting fathers aged 25 years and below as a way of combating gender-based violence. The initiative was officially inaugurated during a five-day workshop for trainers held at Tuzza Hotel bringing together participants from six districts in the Ankole sub region.
Annet Mugisha, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, expressed her concerns about the government’s focus on promoting the rights and welfare of the girl child often at the expense of the boy child. “It’s crucial for parents to contribute to the upbringing of responsible citizens. Unfortunately, many fathers today are relinquishing their responsibilities leaving the burden solely on women,” Mugisha stated.
Nicholas Bashongoka, the Community Development Officer (CDO) from Buhweju District highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence in his district and praised the initiative behind the “Real Father” project. He emphasized that the training will empower leaders particularly CDOs to guide young fathers on fostering harmony within their families.
Appolo Lee Kakonge, Chief Executive Director of West Ankole Civil Society Forum underscored that the workshop aims to equip CDOs with the necessary knowledge to address and mitigate incidents of gender-based violence that are rampant in the region. The selected districts for this initiative include Buhweju, Rwampara, Mitooma, Bushenyi, and Sheema.
The workshop was attended by CDOs, opinion leaders, gender officers and other stakeholders who are expected to pass on the knowledge and skills they acquire to leaders at the subcounty level. This collaborative effort aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for families ultimately reducing the rates of gender-based violence in the region.
