July 2-4, 2025 | Kampala, Uganda
Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) successfully concluded a groundbreaking three-day residential capacity building workshop that brought together 20 dedicated Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) from Central and Lango regions. The workshop, held from July 2-4, 2025, in Kampala, marked a significant milestone in strengthening the advocacy impact and protection mechanisms for women defenders across Uganda.
Building Relationships across Regions
The workshop’s core objective was clear: enhance the capacity, protection, and advocacy impact of WHRDs through cross-regional learning and skills development. With participants representing diverse advocacy backgrounds, from combating early marriages to defending sex workers’ rights, the gathering created a powerful platform for shared learning and mutual support.
“We shall never go back when we are the same due to the information shared,” expressed Akello Jamilla, capturing the transformative spirit that permeated the three-day event.
Institutional Partnerships: Opening New Doors
Uganda Human Rights Commission: A Strategic Alliance
Ruth Sekinde, Director at the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), delivered a powerful session that challenged participants to recognize their worth and impact. Her opening message resonated deeply:
“One key lesson learned in my human rights work journey is that women are very important, but women underestimate themselves. Women are enemies of each other, but there is space for all of us.”
Through interactive case studies and stereotype-breaking exercises, Ruth helped participants understand that speaking about human rights doesn’t mean being against government, but rather addressing issues that affect people’s lives. The session equipped defenders with practical knowledge on how to engage UHRC mechanisms for accountability and protection.
Equal Opportunities Commission: Addressing Discrimination Head-On
Counsel Peace from the Equal Opportunities Commission brought fresh perspectives on tackling discrimination and marginalization. Her session revealed that only 5 out of 20 participants had previously interacted with EOC, highlighting a crucial gap that the workshop aimed to bridge.
Participants shared powerful testimonies of discrimination:
- Maria, a sex worker rights defender: “As a sex worker, people hate you because they don’t like someone doing sex work.”
- Betty, on tribal discrimination: “I felt neglected because I was always harassed by the stepmother due to my mixed heritage,my mother was Munyarwanda and father was Muganda.”
- Getrude, on gender-based exclusion: “While in a committee meeting full of men, I am always denied a platform to make any submission.”
“After meeting with an EOC representative, my hopes have been built up because I believe Lango regional economic disparities can be addressed,” shared Jamila, expressing renewed optimism.
Personal Safety and Collective Care: Revolutionary Self-Preservation
One of the workshop’s most innovative elements was the wellness and collective care session, including guided nap time—a radical act of self-preservation in a field where defenders often sacrifice personal well-being for their cause.
“Most times women are lost in work, they never have time for themselves, but taking a nap is not a burden,” emphasized facilitator Brenda Kugonza.
Participants learned that self-care isn’t selfish but essential: “Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish, it allows you to serve from an overflow.”
Risk Assessment through Real-Life Scenarios
The workshop featured three compelling role-play sessions that brought security challenges to life:
- Office Security Breach: Participants navigated the aftermath of break-ins at women’s organizations, learning the importance of information backup and collaborative response.
- Land Grabbing Resistance: Defenders faced unlawful arrest and sexual violence while fighting for women’s land rights, highlighting the need for legal aid networks and emergency support systems.
- Media Advocacy Challenges: A role-play involving early marriage prevention through media advocacy demonstrated the political intimidation defenders face and the critical importance of cross-regional networking.
Evidence-Based Advocacy: From Stories to Systems Change
Through targeted advocacy simulations, participants learned that preparation builds confidence and personal testimonies create powerful evidence for systemic change. The workshop emphasized that documentation isn’t just record-keeping. It is the foundation of evidence-based advocacy that can transform policies and save lives.
Challenges and Honest Reflections
The workshop didn’t shy away from difficult realities. Key challenges identified included:
- Cultural and Religious Rigidity: Deep-rooted beliefs that limit full engagement in human rights work
- Isolation Among WHRDs: Many defenders lack support networks and safe spaces
- Limited Documentation Capacity: Knowledge gaps in effectively recording human rights violations
Looking Forward: A Network Strengthened
As the workshop concluded, participants weren’t just better informed.They were transformed. The network, now comprising 145 members across regions, committed to:
- Identifying and documenting WHRDs in their districts
- Continuing evidence-based advocacy training
- Providing emergency response support (legal, medical, psychological)
- Promoting cross-cultural visits and emotional well-being initiatives
- Creating opportunities for experienced WHRDs to facilitate future training sessions
The Ripple Effect Begins
“After this workshop, we’re not just returning to our communities. We’re returning as empowered advocates with tools, networks, and renewed purpose,” reflected one participant.
The WHRDN-U residential workshop proved that when women defenders come together, share experiences, and build alliances, the impact extends far beyond individual empowerment. It creates a movement capable of challenging systems, protecting the vulnerable, and building a more equitable Uganda.
Published by Brenda Kugonza