Makerere University on Monday launched the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism campaign with a call for urgent action against gender-based violence.
The university, working with the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda and UNFPA in Uganda, flagged off the “Strides for Change” activism walk that drew diplomats, students and gender advocates.
Heads of Diplomatic Missions from Sweden, Australia, Ireland and Germany joined Makerere officials for the march, which started at the CCE roundabout and moved through Mary Stuart Road before ending at the Impis Rugby Grounds.
The dignitaries were received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by the Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, alongside the Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine.
“Makerere University remains dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive environment and promoting gender equality. Each of us has a role in building a society free from violence,” the Vice Chancellor said in his message delivered by Dr. Kabumbuli.
Student participation took centre stage as members of the 91st Students Guild, led by their President, H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu, took over the banner at Mary Stuart Hall and led the procession to the rugby grounds where the main activities continued.
The partners also announced that Makerere’s Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo and Dr. Amon Ashaba Mwiine had been selected among 16 male champions who will spearhead national efforts to combat gender-based violence.