A South Sudanese refugee living in Uganda’s Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement has shared her story of surviving years of domestic violence, highlighting the challenges faced by women and girls in displacement settings and the importance of community support services.
The 37-year-old Kakwa woman fled conflict in South Sudan with her family in 2017 and has since lived in Rhino Camp in Uganda’s West Nile region. Married at the age of 16, she says she has endured years of physical, emotional, and economic abuse while raising 12 children with minimal support from her husband.
According to her account, repeated violence, lack of access to education, and financial hardship have made daily life extremely difficult. She also expressed concerns about her children’s future, explaining that many are unable to attend school because basic educational expenses are not being met.
The woman credits the Women and Girls’ Safe Space in Omugo II with providing emotional support and a sense of hope during difficult times. The center offers a safe environment where women can share experiences, receive psychosocial support, and access information on their rights, health, and available services.
Despite the benefits of the program, she noted that many women face obstacles in accessing support. Cultural barriers, household responsibilities, and restrictions imposed by male family members often prevent women and girls from participating in activities and services designed to assist them.
She also highlighted broader protection concerns within the community, including gender-based violence, sexual assault risks while collecting firewood, and limited reporting of abuse due to fear and social stigma. According to her, greater involvement of men in awareness programs is essential to promote respect, shared responsibilities, and healthier family relationships.
The Danish Refugee Council supports six Women and Girls’ Safe Spaces across Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement, providing psychosocial assistance, vocational training, and support services for women and girls affected by conflict and displacement. These initiatives aim to help survivors rebuild social networks, improve well-being, and gain skills that can support long-term resilience.
Her story reflects the ongoing challenges faced by refugee women across East Africa, where conflict, displacement, and gender inequality continue to create significant barriers to safety, education, and economic independence. Humanitarian organizations say sustained support and community-based programs remain critical to helping vulnerable women and families rebuild their lives.
