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Elders in Karamoja sub-region have committed to transforming the cultural norms that undermine the rights of women in Society.

09 March, 2023
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Elders in Karamoja sub-region have committed to transforming the cultural norms that undermine the rights of women and girls in society.


The bad traditional norms include the use of a hot iron bar to brand the private parts of a woman for declining to marry a man selected by the elders, the communal punishment locally known as ‘’Ameto’’ who disrespects the husband, forceful marriage, and inheritance among others.

The elders say that they have banned all these bad practices and anyone found violating women’s rights in any form shall pay a fine of 60 cows, according to their bylaws.

John Bosco Akore, the secretary for Kotido Elders Council, says that the elders have eliminated all the bad cultures that violate the rights of women, and formulated bylaws to protect women against any harm.

Thomas Odelok, the Executive Director for Karamoja Women’s Umbrella Organization- KAWUO noted that they have realized some change among the women in the region as they can now participate in decision-making. Odelok observed that although there is some progress, cultural norms still remain a challenge and KAWUO is engaging cultural and church leaders in amplifying the voices of young women and girls.

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