Influence of stakeholder engagement on gender-based violence a mong refugee populations in Uganda

Abstract

The Government of Uganda together with other development partners put in place legal frameworks, policies and programmes aimed at averting Gender Based Violence (GBV) not only in the refugee populations but in the entire country. Nonetheless, the prevalence of GBV is still high and increasing. There are calls for increased stakeholders‟ engagement to act and be involved in the fight against GBV in the country. Without stakeholders‟ active involvement in awareness creation, prevention and response against GBV, cases of GBV are likely to continue the rise. However, effectiveness of stakeholders‟ engagement and involvement has not been documented, at least in the light of Rhino refugee settlement. Therefore, this study examined the effect of stakeholder engagement on gender-based violence among the refugee populations at the Rhino Camp refugee settlement. Specifically, the study examined the Gender Based Violence types among the refugee populations at the Rhino Camp refugee settlement, the effect of relationship engagement on genderbased violence among the refugee populations and lastly, the effect of personal engagement and GBV among the refugee populations at Rhino Camp refugee settlement.The study employed a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional survey, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative dimensions. It involved 227 respondents who participated in interviews. Data collection employed structured self-administered questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focused group discussion guides. Data analysis was done using SPSS software and Microsoft Excel for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The study revealed that physical violence is the most common type of gender-based violence (GBV) reported by 33% of participants, sexual violence was identified by 26%, followed by economic violence, harmful traditional violence, and psychological violence cases by 17%, 16%, and 8% respectively. Child marriages are also common, driven by socio-economic factors. Only 30% of participants believe women are generally aware and empowered to seek justice for victims. Cultural and social norms, such as female genital mutilation, are influential in perpetuating GBV. It was found that involving men in campaigns against GBV significantly reduces its occurrence; men's active participation in awareness initiatives was crucial given their role as primary perpetrators. Youth engagement in community initiatives like door-todoor campaigns and popular theatre also contributes to a decrease in GBV. Statistical analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between stakeholder engagement, personal engagement, and GBV reduction, with these factors explaining 52.6% of the variance in GBV reduction at the camp.Overall, the study underscored the importance of stakeholder and personal engagement in reducing GBV, Positive correlations among variables demonstrated that increased stakeholder and personal involvement leads to reduction of GBV at the refugee camp, with Stakeholder Engagement and Personal Engagement explaining 52.6% of the reduction. Therefore, strengthening engagement strategies, expanding outreach to men, sensitizing stakeholders, and partnering with local organizations are recommended to support GBV survivors and sustain progress. Future research should explore additional factors influencing GBV reduction in refugee settings for more effective interventions.