As the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence concluded, His Royal Majesty Rwoth Ubimu Philip Olarker Rauni III, King of Alur, declared a firm stance against violence targeting women and girls within the Kingdom.
The seven-point decree, issued on December 9, 2024, aligns with the global campaign’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” and emphasizes Alur cultural values like “kura matira” (positive cultural conduct) and “ajaa” (truth-telling).
Key Highlights of the Decree:
- Zero Tolerance for Violence: All acts of violence against women and girls must be reported promptly to authorities for immediate action. Leaders at grassroots levels are mandated to support this initiative.
- Cultural Education: Chiefs, elders, and parents are required to teach children cultural principles that uphold the rights of women and girls, fostering respect and safety within communities.
- Family-Based Learning: Families are encouraged to revive the traditional “kami” system of learning, promoting environmental stewardship and security while tailoring content for children of all ages.
- Inclusive Leadership: Leadership structures are urged to ensure equitable participation of women and provide fair opportunities for all.
- Child Marriage Monitoring: Chiefs and cultural leaders must oversee traditional marriage ceremonies to prevent the involvement of underage girls. Marriage certificates will only be issued upon verification of age and consent.
- Accessible Justice: Informal justice systems must incorporate truth, fairness, and care as guiding principles, ensuring justice is affordable and accessible, particularly for women and youth.
- Community Partnerships: Chiefs, in collaboration with the Kingdom’s Secretariat, are tasked with disseminating the decree and partnering with stakeholders, including religious leaders and community organizations, to safeguard women’s and girls’ rights.
The King emphasized the importance of cultural values in protecting women and denounced any forms of human rights abuse, reinforcing the principle that Alur traditions inherently promote dignity and justice.
Elements of the decree have also been integrated into the Council of Traditional Leaders in Africa (COTLA) Uganda Chapter’s efforts to promote girl-child education and retention in schools.
The Alur Kingdom’s firm stance is a call to action, urging all leaders and community members to unite to foster a safer and more equitable society.
