Lamwo district approves action plan to curb GBV, protect women, girls and refugees

Lamwo district local government has approved a Gender-Based Violence Local Action Plan (GBVLAP), reinforcing efforts to combat violence against women and girls especially in refugee‑hosting communities.

Developed under the United Nations Development Programme’s Spotlight Initiative 2.0, the plan aligns with UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, as well as the Goma Declaration, which champion women’s participation in peacebuilding, security, and the elimination of gender inequality and violence.

Speaking after Monday’s council approval, Wilfred Nyeko, Lamwo’s community development officer and coordinator of the UNDP Spotlight Initiative activities, called the decision a major breakthrough in tackling rising GBV cases.

Nyeko said the plan’s development involved broad consultations, reflections, reforms, and cross‑sector experience‑sharing.

“A cooperative multi‑sectoral approach was essential, and all stakeholders agreed on the procedures and priorities reflected in this document,” he noted.

“The approval signals the district’s stronger commitment to addressing gender inequality and violence,” he added.

Nyeko explained that the violence has led to low productivity, poor school attendance, and sexual and reproductive health challenges.

“For many women and girls, GBV has damaged their health, livelihoods, and dignity and this action plan will strengthen prevention, response, and protection mechanisms,” he added.

District council speaker Ochola James welcomed the plan, pledging the council’s support for policies that protect vulnerable groups.

He urged leaders, technical staff, cultural institutions, and communities to ensure effective implementation.

“This should not remain a paper document and we want real action that changes the lives of women and girls affected by violence,” he said.

Odur Justice Peace, secretary for production, marketing and natural resources, who presented the plan to the council, said GBV continues to undermine development and family stability.

“Violence against women and girls affects productivity, education, and community wellbeing and approving this plan means the district has taken a firm step toward protecting its people,” he explained.

Paloga sub‑county female councillor Aciro Anna also welcomed the move, noting that rural women still face domestic violence, early marriages, and economic exclusion.

She called for stronger awareness campaigns and law enforcement.

“Many women suffer in silence because they fear reporting or lack support. This plan should help bring services closer to the people,” she said.

However, the district stressed the role of security agencies, especially the police, in responding to violence.

Nyeko commended Lamwo district chairperson Oyet Sisto Ocen, district gender officials, technical staff, development partners, and Chief Administrative Officer Moses Chuna Kapolon for their contributions.

In addition, leaders expressed hope that the new action plan will improve stakeholder coordination and create safer communities for women, girls, and other vulnerable groups across Lamwo district.

Lamwo hosts thousands of refugees and continues to record high levels of GBV with reported GBV cases now exceeding 800, pushing stakeholders to urgently approve a coordinated response.