Lucky Patrick
The Deputy Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Harriet Nyakake Abwoli, has urged the community to embrace cultural norms and values that recognize the family as sacred, aiming to resolve disputes peacefully.
Speaking to leaders and members of the Tooro Supreme Council at Kalya Courts Hotel in Fort Portal, Rt Hon Nyakake condemned the rising incidents of domestic violence, particularly against women, who are often the primary victims. She highlighted the negative impact of such violence on children and families.
Emmanuel Emawu, an officer from International Justice Mission (IJM) and the main facilitator of the discussion, shared a tragic account of a 24-year-old woman from Kiijura in Kabarole District who was murdered by her husband, leaving behind three young children.
Emawu pointed out a significant gap between the public and the justice system, noting that many people, even in urban areas, are unaware of where to report such cases. He urged cultural institutions to take an active role in instilling positive norms and practices in the younger generation, ensuring that children grow up in loving and peaceful environments.
He praised Tooro Kingdom for its cultural practices that honor women as mothers and life-givers, in contrast to regions with harmful beliefs, such as female genital mutilation.
This dialogue took place on Monday, amidst rising concerns over gender-based violence in Kyaka County, where at least three women have been killed by their husbands recently due to marital disputes.
