Wednesday July 4 marked yet another successful training for twenty-two WAN leaders from 22 WAN groups across northern Uganda to be representatives of change in their communities. The two-day capacity building training was organised as part of the Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) project implemented by JRP for Women’s Advocacy Network (WAN), with funding support from Trust Africa.

The training aimed to provide WAN leaders the tools to empower their communities through advocacy and SGBV responsiveness. Led by experts in the field, the training covered a variety of topics including human rights advocacy, leadership and management skills, transitional justice policy and reconciliation and transitional justice challenges and development. Despite differences in language, education and experience, they learned that all human beings are born with human rights and that human rights are to be enjoyed universally.

JRP’s Head of Office, Isaac Okwir discussed substantive human rights and how the Ugandan Government should ensure all human rights are properly implemented. He also taught them practical advocacy skills and the importance of voicing their problems when their rights have been violated. Ker Kwaro Acholi Gender Program Officer Balmoi Caide Okello taught them leadership skills to lead their communities out of conflict through dispute resolution and management. He explained the qualities of a good leader and manager and explained effective management methods including mediation and mobilisation. Deputy Prime Minister of the Acholi Chiefdom, Ochora Emmanuel Lagedo explained transitional justice challenges affecting SGBV victims in Northern Uganda, transitional justice processes and opportunities for redress and reconstruction.

One of the key aspects of the training was to instil in them the confidence to lead and empower their communities with the knowledge and skills they gained. When asked what they had learned, the room beamed with confidence and smiles. One WAN leader (Molly) explained she was never aware she had human rights and thought only educated people were entitled to them. She now knows that she is entitled to all human rights and will ensure they are respected. Another woman (Pauline) voiced a similar view, ensuring all human rights are recognised and respected within her community. Jenifer and Sarah also explained how the training gave them the confidence to voice human rights violations and lead their communities.

After a successful two days, WAN leaders returned to their homes to empower their communities with the knowledge and skills they acquired. JRP is confident the training will make a long-lasting impact on all WAN groups, and is hopeful that one day, victims of war will be listened to, respected and considered in the planning and implementation of government programs and policies.

It was yet another successful day in the field in the district of Adjumani. SGBV victims including, men and women chose goat rearing as their Income Generating Activity. Whilst they expressed some doubts regarding JRP’s assistance, we managed to successfully convince them that unlike other organisations, we deliver our promises. We shared success stories of other conflict-affected communities in Northern Uganda and showed them photos of how they can equally achieve similar outcomes.