This week, Bantwana Initiative Uganda joined global leaders, experts, and advocates in South Africa for the 2024 Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) Forum, an internationally recognized event dedicated to advancing research and action against sexual violence. The forum has provided a crucial platform for sharing insights, discussing effective approaches, and exploring collaborative solutions to prevent violence and protect vulnerable populations.

A central theme of Bantwana’s contributions to the forum has been the importance of centering communities in research and practice. During our presentations, we emphasized the power of listening to communities and building on their own knowledge and experiences rather than applying external, standardized approaches. This approach is integral to creating sustainable solutions that truly resonate with the people they aim to support.

One of the ways Bantwana accomplishes this is through the TIPs (Trails of Improved Practices) research methodology, which allows us to capture real-time feedback directly from program participants. This community-centered approach ensures that interventions are shaped by the voices and experiences of those they affect. For example, TIPs enables us to adjust strategies based on what participants find meaningful, thereby creating programs that are both responsive and impactful. Through valuing community input, we strengthen our interventions to address unique challenges and support real change.

Another key highlight of our participation was sharing the success of the SAFE (Safety at All times For Every child) Program, a holistic initiative dedicated to preventing and responding to child sexual abuse (CSA) and other forms of violence. The SAFE program operates on a “whole-community” model, involving parents, caregivers, children, local leaders, and schools to foster safer, more supportive environments. Through educating and mobilizing all community members, SAFE builds a collective responsibility to protect children and establish an enduring culture of safety.

The forum has offered Bantwana a valuable opportunity to exchange insights with experts from around the world, expanding our understanding and refining our strategies to prevent violence more effectively. Every discussion and presentation further strengthens our commitment to place communities at the heart of our work, empowering them to take the lead in creating lasting solutions.
Together with global partners, we continue to drive change and work towards a world where every child grows up free from violence and fear.