Category: PROTECTIONS

Building resilience and solidarity in challenging times

On January 21st, 2025, the Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) hosted a powerful half-day workshop at the HRAPF Community Center, bringing together structurally marginalized women human rights defenders from across Uganda. The convening addressed a critical issue affecting our community: the devastating impact of isolation on women defenders who face multiple layers of discrimination and violence.

Confronting Harsh Realities

The workshop created a brave space where defenders shared their lived experiences of working at the intersection of human rights advocacy and structural marginalization. Their stories painted a sobering picture of the challenges facing our community:

• A queer mother at risk of losing custody of her children simply because of her identity
• Defenders facing complete social isolation, with some experiencing fear of corrective rape
• Exclusion from civil society organizations for advocating inclusivity in programming
• Mental health struggles so severe that some defenders reported having suicidal thoughts

These testimonies highlighted how isolation compounds the already significant risks that women human rights defenders face, creating layers of vulnerability that require urgent attention and action.

Mapping Patterns of Violence

Through collaborative brainstorming sessions, participants identified recurring patterns of violations that structurally marginalized women defenders encounter:

• Community-level discrimination that extends beyond individual prejudice to systemic exclusion
• Physical attacks and threats from both state and non-state actors
• Economic marginalization through job insecurity and limited livelihood opportunities
• Family and social rejection that leaves defenders without traditional support systems

Building Strategies for Resilience

The workshop wasn’t just about identifying problems—it was about developing solutions. HRAPF’s perspective on crisis management and protection strategies revealed both challenges and opportunities in the current context.

Key concerns emerged around the declining availability of relocation support and the struggle to access stable housing amid rising homelessness and unemployment. However, the session also generated practical strategies for building resilience:

Economic Empowerment

• Actively seeking opportunities across various economic sectors
• Developing professional positioning while maintaining awareness of political risks
• Creating sustainable livelihood strategies that don’t compromise safety

Crisis Management

• Prioritizing self-care during periods of heightened political tension
• Building stronger networks for mutual support and protection
• Maintaining vigilance while continuing advocacy work

The Path Forward

The convening reinforced several critical insights that will shape WHRDN-U’s ongoing work:

Mental Health Must Be Centered: The severe psychological impact of isolation and discrimination requires dedicated attention and resources. Our movement’s sustainability depends on supporting the holistic well-being of defenders.

Economic Justice Is Human Rights: Access to stable livelihoods isn’t separate from human rights work—it’s fundamental to it. Defenders cannot sustain their advocacy without economic security.

Solidarity Is Survival: The networking and connection fostered during the workshop demonstrated the power of collective action. When defenders support each other, they become more resilient and effective.

Inclusion without Exploitation: The challenge of including marginalized voices in advocacy work while protecting them from additional risks requires careful, ethical approaches.

A Commitment to Continued Action

This convening was not a one-time event but part of WHRDN-U’s ongoing commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of our community. The stories shared, connections made, and strategies developed will inform our programming and advocacy moving forward.

We recognize that structurally marginalized women human rights defenders face unique challenges that require specialized support and understanding. Their courage in continuing this vital work despite overwhelming obstacles inspires us and reinforces why this network exists.

The isolation that many defenders experience is not inevitable, it’s a result of systems that can be changed through collective action, sustained support, and unwavering solidarity.

The Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda continues to advocate for the safety, security, and sustainability of all women defenders, with particular attention to those facing structural marginalization. For more information about our programs and how to get involved, contact us through our website.

Join us in building a movement where no defender stands alone.

“We cannot protect what we don’t understand.” These were the opening sentiments shared by Brenda Kugonza, Executive Director of the Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U), as she launched a groundbreaking two-day Legal Protection and Compliance Training on April 24–25, 2025. The training brought together 24 Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) from across Uganda and was facilitated by legal expert Anthony Masake, Executive Director of Chapter Four Uganda.

The initiative aimed to bolster the legal knowledge and compliance capacity of WHRDs, ensuring their continued resilience amidst an increasingly restrictive civic space.

Why Legal Compliance Matters for WHRDs

In her opening remarks, Brenda shared the sobering story of a WHRD whose organization was shut down over legal noncompliance, resulting in serious personal repercussions. “We cannot allow such stories to repeat. Understanding the law is part of our protection and sustainability,” she emphasized.

With Uganda’s legal landscape rapidly shifting, the training set out to:

• Raise awareness on legal obligations for NGOs.
• Explore practical strategies for addressing compliance challenges.
• Strengthen collective advocacy around civic space and operational freedoms.

Key Discussions and Regional Realities

Participants shared pressing legal and operational issues based on their regional contexts:

• Central Uganda: Questions ranged from NGO registration requirements, tax return errors, and anti-money laundering policies, to handling URA/KCCA notifications and complex donor compliance issues.
• Western Uganda: Concerns included lack of capacity among Boards, frequent changes in registration requirements, corruption, and pressures to disclose funding sources before signing MOUs.
• Eastern Uganda: Issues raised included district-level legal fees, registration denial due to organizational objectives, confusion around filing deadlines, and complexities surrounding founder member succession.
• Northern & West Nile: WHRDs discussed risks tied to tax exemptions, district-level MOU pressures, and community resistance due to the nature of their human rights work.

The diversity of experiences showcased just how varied — and often challenging — the legal terrain is for WHRDs, especially those working in remote or underserved areas.

Expert Insights and Legal Navigation Tools

Facilitator Anthony Masake provided tailored responses and legal guidance. Key takeaways included:

• NGO Registration & Tax Compliance: Participants were urged to adhere strictly to URSB checklists and to file tax returns by the 10th of each month to avoid penalties. Tax exemption is beneficial but may trigger audits.
• FIA & Anti-Money Laundering: While NGOs are exempt from FIA registration as of February 2025, they are still advised to maintain Anti-Money Laundering policies.
• MOUs with Districts: Signing MOUs with local governments is not a legal requirement. WHRDs were advised to critically assess risks before entering into such agreements.
• Data Protection: A deep dive into Uganda’s Data Protection Policy helped participants understand roles of Data Controllers, Processors, and Officers. Annual registration with the Data Protection and Privacy Office (DPPO) is mandatory, and organizations were encouraged to assign management-level DPOs.

Understanding the NGO Bureau’s RIA Report

Day Two introduced participants to the Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) report , a policy document that outlines the government’s expectations for NGO operations. Among other things, the report advocates:

• Reducing administrative costs in favor of direct service delivery.
• Employing qualified professionals to establish NGOs.
• Screening foreign donors.
• Hiring full-time compliance officers.

While informative, the RIA report sparked concern. “It focuses too much on our shortcomings and too little on our contributions,” noted Sarah Namugolo. Participants warned that if used selectively, the RIA could further restrict civic space and undermine NGO impact.

Data Protection: A Critical Compliance Frontier

The training concluded with an intensive session on data protection. From defining personal data to understanding the responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer (DPO), participants gained critical insights.

Notably, Annet Alubo shared a cautionary tale of how her personal data was misused by a consultant to register another NGO. This testimony underscored the urgent need for robust data protection measures in the sector.

Participant Reflections & Commitments

WHRDs left the training energized and equipped with practical action plans. Highlights include:

• Jackline Namono committed to registering her CBO with URSB and restructuring her Board.
• Jovia Oyungi planned to train her colleagues on data protection principles and begin registration with the DPPO.
• Rita from MADNET resolved to rebrand her organization and draft a data protection policy.
• Hope Atim appreciated learning how to communicate with URA in case of delayed payments.
• Florence Namuga and Nabiira Nakalema were among many who expressed gratitude for learning how to navigate compliance with confidence.

Key Achievements

• Deepened understanding of legal compliance frameworks including registration, taxation, and data privacy.
• Cross-regional solidarity through shared experiences and peer learning.
• Tangible action plans to address compliance gaps and improve legal resilience.

Next Steps

WHRDN-U and Chapter Four Uganda committed to continued support, including:

• Organizing a specialized tax compliance training.
• Sharing legal templates (e.g., URA correspondence letters, DPO job descriptions).
• Facilitating ICT-focused training through the DPPO.
• Coordinating collective advocacy around the NGO Bureau’s RIA report.
• Mapping WHRDs in environmental rights work for targeted support.

Conclusion: Building Legal Power for Women Defenders

The Legal Protection and Compliance Training reaffirmed WHRDN-U’s commitment to equipping WHRDs with the knowledge and tools needed to not just survive — but thrive — in Uganda’s legal and civic landscape. By fostering collective resilience and compliance literacy, WHRDN-U is ensuring that WHRDs remain empowered to defend rights, challenge injustice, and lead transformational change in their communities.

PICTORIAL OF THE TRAINING

The Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) recently conducted a two-day legal protection training for Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) and staff from community-based organizations (CBOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The workshop, held on 27th and 28th June 2024 at Arch Apartments Hotel, Ntinda, aimed to equip WHRDs with the skills to navigate Uganda’s complex legal compliance landscape. The training addressed the growing risks posed by the shrinking civic space and restrictive regulations that threaten WHRDs’ advocacy efforts.

Objectives of the Training

1. Reflecting on Civic Space: Assess the state of Uganda’s civic space and its impact on WHRDs’ work.
2. Legal Compliance Awareness: Increase awareness of Uganda’s legal obligations for WHRDs and their organizations.
3. Developing Resilient Strategies: Develop strategies to help WHRDs navigate the current operating environment.

Key Training Components

1. Understanding Legal Obligations: Facilitated by legal experts from Chapter Four Uganda, participants learned about NGO registration, data protection, submission of annual returns, and filing of key organizational documents with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) and other authorities.
2. Navigating Civic Space Challenges: The training highlighted challenges faced by WHRDs, such as complex registration processes, permit renewals, multiple reporting obligations, and negative rhetoric from government actors. Participants shared their experiences and explored strategies to overcome these obstacles.
3. Addressing Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Participants were introduced to compliance measures under Uganda’s anti-money laundering laws, focusing on identifying and mitigating risks associated with currency smuggling, false invoicing, and fund blending.
4. Building Resilient Legal Strategies: WHRDs discussed how to strengthen organizational compliance by updating URSB information, filing company forms, renewing NGO permits, and registering organizational assets. Practical steps for ensuring compliance with the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA), NGO Bureau, and Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) were also shared.

Notable Reflections from WHRDs

• One participant shared plans to maintain a dedicated register of directors and strengthen data protection protocols.
• Another participant committed to incorporating key policies into their organization’s operations.
• Others resolved to update their organizational addresses with the NGO Bureau, register their organization’s telephone in the entity’s name, and develop comprehensive data protection policies.
• Participants also committed to meeting permit renewal requirements, training staff on data protection, and registering their organizations with the PDPO.

The training achieved significant outcomes, including:

• Increased Legal Awareness: Participants gained in-depth understanding of Uganda’s regulatory landscape, empowering them to ensure compliance with legal obligations.
• Improved Organizational Compliance: WHRDs now understand how to manage permit renewals, file returns, and safeguard organizational data.
• Capacity Building: WHRDs committed to building internal systems to ensure consistent compliance with financial, legal, and data protection regulations.

The legal protection training marked a significant step towards ensuring that WHRDs operate in a legally compliant, safe, and sustainable manner. By fostering greater awareness and capacity, WHRDs are now better equipped to overcome operational challenges and continue their vital advocacy for human rights. The Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) remains committed to supporting WHRDs as they work towards a more just, inclusive, and rights-respecting society.

Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) often face immense emotional and physical challenges in their work, combating gender inequality and advocating for vulnerable groups. The toll on their well-being is undeniable. In response to this, the Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) has prioritized a holistic approach to self-care and wellness, creating a safe space for WHRDs to recharge and focus on their health.

On 26th February 2024, WHRDN-U organized a self-care session for 13 WHRDs at Spa Mania Wellness Centre. This event provided a much-needed respite, offering a combination of therapies designed to relieve the stress and burnout experienced by these tireless defenders of human rights. The session included group counseling, therapeutic massages, and relaxation therapies such as Jacuzzis and steam baths, all aimed at enhancing mental and physical wellness.

The WHRDs who attended shared powerful stories of resilience, from battling online harassment to dealing with the emotional toll of gender-based violence and social stigmatization. These activists, often operating in challenging environments, are subjected to threats, intimidation, and fatigue, which can significantly impact their well-being. The self-care session allowed them to process their experiences, learn stress management techniques, and reflect on their emotional and physical needs.

As one participant shared, “The counselling session has been so helpful for my emotional wellbeing. I have learned to let go of the stress I’ve been carrying for so long.” Another stated, “The body massage and steam bath were incredibly relieving. It taught me to prioritize my own well-being.”

WHRDN-U’s initiative highlights the importance of self-care for WHRDs, emphasizing that protecting their health is essential to sustaining their activism. By fostering collective care, WHRDN-U ensures that these women can continue their vital work in advocating for human rights without compromising their mental or physical health.

This session serves as a reminder that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for those who dedicate their lives to making the world a better place. It is crucial that more organizations follow this example, offering support and wellness opportunities to WHRDs who tirelessly champion justice and equality.

Article published by Brenda Kugonza, Executive Director of WHRDN-U