G.I.R.L.S Against Gender-Based Violence Trainers of Trainees Workshop – Conclusion

UOC


“True allies stand up for what is right, even when others remain silent”  –  Elijah NjawuziFacilitator


 

The three-day G.I.R.L.S Against Gender-Based Violence Trainers of Trainees Workshop, under the Girls in Rugby Learning Through Sport (G.I.R.L.S) Project—a three-year initiative implemented by the Uganda Olympic Committee, Uganda Rugby Union, and Swans Sports Club, with funding from Olympic Solidarity  commenced on Friday, 28th November and concluded on Sunday, 30th November at Innophine Hotel in Entebbe.

Taking place during the globally recognized 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the workshop aligned seamlessly with the international call to strengthen prevention, awareness, and community engagement. Completing the ToT training within this period positioned the newly trained facilitators to contribute immediately and meaningfully to the ongoing campaign, equipped with fresh skills, renewed commitment, and practical tools for driving change within the rugby community and beyond.

Day One focused on the theme “Safeguarding, Child Protection & Gender-Based Violence (GBV)”. Facilitators guided participants through foundational discussions on what constitutes GBV, how it manifests in sports settings, and why athletes—particularly girls—experience unique vulnerabilities.

Patricia-Ayebare-At-the-G.I.R.L.S-Against-GBV

Ms. Patricia Ayebare delivered an in-depth session on safeguarding and child protection, covering key principles, roles and responsibilities, safe versus unsafe behaviors, and reporting mechanisms. Ms. Cissie B. Musiime expanded the conversation with sessions on handling disclosures, referral pathways, working with support services, and creating safe school sport environments.

Day Two centered on the theme “Mental Health, Life Skills and Gender-Based Violence Prevention.” Facilitators shifted the focus beyond the playing field, beginning with Dr. Patricia Nanteza Mbowa’s exploration of mental health challenges, stress identification, and supportive communication. Additional sessions led by Ms. Harriet Aya and Ms. Zakiah Maseruka covered confidence-building, assertiveness, leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, and empowering girls to speak up.
Mr. Elijah Njawuzi broadened the perspective further with discussions on positive masculinity, respect, equality, non-violence, and how peer influence can be leveraged to reduce instances of GBV.

Elijah Njawuzi delivering her presentation about Mental health in GBV TOT workshop

Day Three transitioned fully into practical application under the theme “Sports Values, Financial Literacy and GBV in Rugby.” Ms. Gorata Kgathi emphasized rugby values, preventing violence in sport, coaching girls with sensitivity, and challenging harmful gender norms. The day continued on the pitch, where Mr. Jude Rwakayanga led demonstrations on safe training practices, effective engagement with girls and mixed-gender groups, and integrating life skills into sports activities.

The ToT Workshop stands as a strong contribution to the wider Girls Against GBV movement and ongoing global efforts to end gender-based violence, particularly the disproportionate impact it has on women and girls. Its alignment with the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign further amplified its relevance and impact.

 


#G.I.R.L.SagainstGBV | #EndGBVNow | #16DaysofActivism


 

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