SCI Celebrates the End of the 2024 16 Days of Activism Campaign to End Gender-Based Violence
As the world comes together each year to observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Selfless Compassion Initiative (SCI) proudly joins the global movement, working tirelessly to raise awareness and create lasting change.
This year, Selfless Compasion Initiative (SCI’s engagement with local communities in West Nile, Uganda, has made an impressive impact, furthering the fight against GBV while empowering women and teenage mothers with essential skills and advocacy tools.
The 2024 campaign kicked off with a series of impactful activities aimed at engaging and empowering vulnerable communities.
On December 4th, SCI gathered 50 teenage mothers from the Rockstar Teenage Mothers’ group in Olumini Cell, Driwala Ward, Ayivu Division, Arua City.
The following day, December 5th, SCI continued their work with another 60 women from the Ane Angu Drile Women’s Group in the same location.
These sessions focused on financial literacy, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage their finances effectively.
Additionally, the groups engaged in in-depth discussions on Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), highlighting the importance of informed decision-making for young women.
Beyond these essential educational activities, SCI’s continued commitment to enhancing entrepreneurship skills was also evident.
Participants were trained in various skills, including leatherwork, keychain making, belt crafting, and other valuable trades. This practical support plays a vital role in equipping the groups with sustainable income-generating skills.
The impact of SCI’s efforts was clearly seen through the voices of the community members who benefited from the trainings and workshops.
One key leader from the Rockstar Teenage Mothers’ group expressed deep gratitude, saying,
“I want to thank the Selfless Compassion Initiative for imparting leadership skills and advocacy that now empowers me to stand and lead this group of teenage mothers.”
This sentiment was echoed by the treasurer of the same group, who shared her personal journey. She expressed,
“Thanks to the support from SCI, I have gained the skills to make leather shoes, keychains, and other crafts. As a teenage mother and single parent, I am now able to support my family, especially after my husband left for Juba, South Sudan.” Her story is a testament to the profound impact of SCI’s skills development initiatives.
In addition to its direct engagement with women and teenage mothers, SCI partnered with the Uganda Small Scale Entrepreneurs Association (USSIA), further expanding the opportunities available to the Rockstar Teenage Mothers’ group.
Through this partnership, two members of the group received specialized training in leather shoe making, helping them develop products that contribute to their financial independence.
These partnerships are an integral part of SCI’s strategy to empower local communities and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Participant Sent By SCI at The USIA Skilling Center
Throughout the 16 days of activism, SCI also worked to strengthen the advocacy of the campaign by developing focused discussions on crucial topics such as self-love, confidence, and getting rid of negative self-attitudes.
The organization encouraged participants to reflect on their personal worth and build confidence, alongside further education on SRHR. These sessions provided participants with the tools to understand their rights and navigate their health choices with greater clarity.
The climax of the 2024 16 Days of Activism to End GBV came on December 9th, when SCI joined Arua District in celebrating the culmination of the campaign at Vurra Subcounty.
Partners In A March at the Arua District Celebration
Mrs. Apio Freda, the CEO of SCI, highlighted the importance of this event, stating,
“Joining Arua District in celebrating the 16 Days of Activism to End GBV brings forward our aims and objectives of reducing or preventing GBV within families in Arua, West Nile, and the world at large.”
Mrs. Apio Freda, Speaking At The Arua District 16 Days Events At Vurra
This celebration brought together local leaders, partners, and community members to reflect on the progress made in ending GBV and highlight the ongoing need for collective action.
The final day of SCI’s participation in the campaign took place on December 10th, 2024, at Arua Central Market.
Here, SCI was joined by other partners in marking the end of the campaign.
Mrs. Oluru Josephine, the Executive Director of SCI, expressed the significance of the day, saying,
“Today marks the last day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign that began on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25th.”
The celebration provided a space for reflection, unity, and the commitment to continuing the fight against GBV beyond the 16 days.
A Continuing Commitment
The 2024 16 Days of Activism marked another step forward in SCI’s mission to combat GBV and empower women in Uganda.
Through its dedication to providing practical skills, fostering leadership, and advocating for SRHR, SCI continues to create tangible change in the lives of vulnerable groups.
As SCI looks ahead to future campaigns, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to reducing GBV and promoting equality and empowerment for all.
In the words of Mrs. Apio Freda, “Together, we can create a world where gender-based violence is eradicated and women and girls have the opportunity to thrive.”
SCI’s efforts throughout the 16 Days of Activism have been a shining example of what can be achieved when communities, partners, and organizations unite for a common cause.
