Danish Ambassador Commends Hoima’s Gender Equality Efforts on International Men’s Day

Summary:

• Danish Ambassador praises Hoima leaders for promoting gender equality during the belated International Men’s Day, emphasizing the importance of redefining masculinity and collective efforts to address challenges faced by both genders.

The Danish Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Signe Winding Alberjerg, commended Hoima District leaders for their efforts in promoting gender equality during the belated International Men’s Day celebration in Buhamba village, Kitoba sub-county. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Alberjerg emphasized the importance of redefining masculinity to build environments supportive of strong women, rejecting notions of male bullying. She highlighted the need for collective efforts to address challenges faced by both boys and girls.

Ambassador Alberjerg participated in a walk as part of the International Men’s Day events organized by male champions and local leaders, supported by the Danish Embassy in Uganda and Reproductive Health Uganda (RHU). Mr. Joseph Karugaba Isimbwa Apuuli, an Executive Member of Male Champions in Hoima, expressed the intention to popularize Men’s Day celebrations throughout Bunyoro and seek national recognition.

In addressing the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Hoima Resident District Commissioner Mr. Michael Kyakashari stressed the reality of GBV in the district, emphasizing the role of male champions in combating the issue. Reproductive Health Uganda’s Director of Finance, Mr. Peter Mark Mutebi, highlighted the rising trend of GBV, with males accounting for 40% to 60% of perpetrators, urging recognition of women as GBV perpetrators as well.

Kitoba Sub-county Local Government Chairman, Mr. Elisha Kaliisa, emphasized the need to address issues affecting the boy child, drawing attention to the challenges they face, such as involvement in drug abuse and crime. He underscored the importance of child protection beyond focusing solely on the girl child.

The sixth Men’s Day celebration in Hoima and Uganda carried the theme: “Empowerment Unites Men and Boys, Fostering a Safe and Healthy Environment for Women and Girls.” The event aimed to promote dialogue and collective action toward achieving gender equality and addressing the challenges faced by both genders.