Interrogating women’s lived experiences as survivors of gender based violence in Namuwongo, Kampala District

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a prevalent issue globally and in Uganda, disproportionately impacting women and girls, particularly in economically marginalized urban settings like Namuwongo, a suburb of Kampala. This study explored the lived experiences of women survivors of GBV in Namuwongo, focusing on the most common forms of violence, their psychological and physical impacts, and the coping mechanisms employed by survivors. Using a qualitative approach, including in-depth interviews, life histories, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, the study revealed that psychological violence, especially emotional abuse and controlling behavior by intimate partners, is the most prevalent, followed by physical and sexual violence, which are often underreported due to stigma and socio-cultural norms. Survivors face enduring trauma and systemic barriers to accessing justice and support services. Based on these findings, the study recommends actionable measures at multiple levels: at the community level, leaders and grassroots organizations should spearhead awareness campaigns and dialogue sessions to challenge harmful gender norms and reduce stigma, while also creating safe spaces for survivors. At the local government level, authorities should enhance access to medical, legal, and psychosocial services by investing in survivor support centers and improving referral systems in informal settlements like Namuwongo. Local leaders should also collaborate with civil society to implement culturally relevant interventions and vocational programs to economically empower survivors. At the national policy level, the government should strengthen GBV legislation enforcement, expedite justice processes, and allocate adequate resources for shelters, legal aid, and counseling services. Additionally, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, in coordination with law enforcement and health institutions, should institutionalize survivor-centered, trauma-informed approaches in GBV programming. Lastly, continuous research and monitoring should be supported to ensure evidence-based policy adjustments and sustainable impact. Together, these multi-tiered actions can address the root causes of GBV and build a more supportive and protective environment for women in Namuwongo and similar urban contexts.