SCI Joins SIHA in Launching 16 Days of Activism in Arua City

Selfless Compassion Initiative (SCI), in collaboration with the SIHA Network, officially launched the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at an event held at the Tropical Suites Hotel, Arua City. 

The event served as a rallying call to combat GBV in the region and featured impactful activities designed to raise awareness and inspire action.

The centerpiece of the launch was the screening of Prickly Roses, a powerful film aimed at empowering women to stand against GBV. 

This initiative, spearheaded by SCI and SIHA, brought together key stakeholders, including women market vendors, young mothers, police representatives, the Arua City Community Development Officer (CDO), members of the legal fraternity, and the Assistant Resident City Commissioner.

^{Mrs. Oluru Josephine With Other Partners at the Screening} 

Following the screening, a vibrant panel discussion was held where stakeholders highlighted the urgency of addressing GBV. 

Panelists echoed a shared commitment to ending violence against women and girls in the region. SCI’s Executive Director, 

Mrs. Oluru Josephine, emphasized, “Women should not be oppressed but rather empowered to exercise their rights in the community.”

Mrs. Jackie Bless, SIHA Network’s West Nile representative, reiterated the organization’s dedication to empowering women, promoting leadership roles, and collaborating with women-led organizations like SCI to amplify voices against GBV. 

She highlighted SIHA’s vision of creating a society where women thrive without fear of violence or discrimination.

^{Mrs. Jackie Bless, SIHA West Nile Rep. Speaking}

Mrs. Bako Judith, the Assistant Resident City Commissioner, reinforced the government’s commitment to ensuring security and supporting women’s success through programs such as the Grow Fund and the Parish Development Model (PDM). 

She urged women to embrace these opportunities to enhance their livelihoods.

The Arua City CDO, Mrs. Judith, pledged her office’s ongoing collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs), the police, and other stakeholders. 

She outlined plans for gender-responsive budgeting, advocating for a 5% gender inclusivity quota, and a comprehensive five-year local action plan to guide partnerships.

^{From Left: Mrs. Joyce Makert, Vendor Rep, Mrs. Judith Drate, CCDO, Mrs. Bako Judith, Ass. RCC & FIDA Rep}

In a joint statement by Arua’s CSOs, FIDA West Nile reaffirmed their commitment to grassroots sensitization on the dangers of GBV and leveraging media platforms to amplify the message. 

The CSOs vowed to remain at the forefront of the fight against GBV, working hand-in-hand with community members and stakeholders.

The event concluded with an energetic aerobics session at the OPM grounds, symbolizing the resilience and unity of stakeholders in the 16 Days of Activism journey. 

The physical activity aimed to promote wellness among participants and underscore the importance of collective effort in addressing GBV.

As the 16 Days of Activism continue, SCI and SIHA, along with their partners, remain steadfast in their mission to prevent GBV and empower women and girls in Arua City and beyond. 

This launch marks the beginning of a series of impactful activities aimed at creating a safer, more inclusive community.