Ugandan Minister for Gender Holds Crucial Meeting with UN Coordinator to Combat Sexual Abuse

The Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development in Uganda, Hon. Amongi Betty Ongom, engaged in a pivotal discussion with Mr. Christian Saunders, the United Nations Under Secretary-General and Special Coordinator tasked with enhancing the UN’s response to sexual exploitation and abuse. The meeting, held at the Ministry offices in Kampala, centered on bolstering initiatives aimed at eradicating sexual abuse.

Saunders underscored the importance of directing efforts toward men and boys in the fight against sexual violence, recognizing their potential to play a pivotal role in eliminating this societal ill. He further emphasized the value of enlisting advocates from the sports and creative sectors, harnessing their influence to amplify the campaign against sexual exploitation and abuse.

A notable challenge was issued by Saunders to the Ugandan government, a significant contributor to regional peacekeeping missions. He called on them to ensure that Ugandan personnel deployed internationally adhere to policies against sexual exploitation and abuse. Highlighting the concern, he stated, “It’s crucial that we avoid becoming exploiters of the very people we are meant to assist.” In doing so, he acknowledged the UN’s ongoing efforts to address reports of sexual exploitation involving its members globally.

Minister Amongi responded robustly, showcasing Uganda’s steadfast commitment to combat sexual violence through its comprehensive policy and legal frameworks across various societal strata. She spotlighted the country’s active participation in global and regional coalitions against violence, underscored by the signing of several conventions.

A notable highlight was Uganda’s recent ratification of Convention number 190, focused on eradicating violence and harassment in workplaces. The Minister announced that the ratified convention would be formally submitted at the UN headquarters on August 7, 2023, with subsequent domestication efforts.

Additionally, Minister Amongi revealed Uganda’s engagement in Bilateral Labour Agreements with host countries where Ugandans work, aimed at ensuring their safety and well-being abroad.

A crucial aspect of the discussion was the role of poverty as a contributing factor to sexual exploitation and abuse. The government has launched various livelihood programs, including the Parish Development Model, designed to uplift incomes among the populace and alleviate vulnerabilities.

In addressing the topic of male engagement, Amongi unveiled the existence of a Male Engagement strategy within the Ministry. She emphasized the need to reinforce its implementation both nationally and subnationally, promoting greater involvement of men and boys in the anti-sexual abuse campaign.

The meeting witnessed the presence of esteemed individuals, including Hon. Mutuuzo Peace Regis, the Minister of State for Gender and Culture Affairs, H.E. Susan Ngongi Namondo, the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Aggrey David Kibenge, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Mr. Martin Wandera, the Director of Labour, and Dr. Angela Nakafeero, the Commissioner of Gender and Women Affairs.

This engagement signifies a significant step forward in Uganda’s commitment to combat sexual exploitation and abuse, both within its borders and on the international stage. The collaboration between the government and the United Nations demonstrates the urgency and importance of eradicating this pervasive issue from society.