Highlighting the devastating impact of acid attacks, they point to the severe injuries, permanent disfigurements, and loss of lives suffered by countless victims, often without sufficient legal recourse to hold perpetrators accountable.
Sharifah Kibirango, the Program Officer Center for Rehabilitation of Survivors of Acid and Burns Violence CERESAV while addressing the media recommended that government to enforce laws and regulations on corrosive substances.
She said, “When we looked at a report from the UK, it passed the offensive weapons act in 2019, which regulated on the sale of acid and other corrossives, which brought about a decline in acid attacks.” She added, “The government of Uganda therefore, needs to follow suit by enforcing the existing acts and regulations and requirements and procedures which relate to control of chemicals and protection of the public from acid violence.”
The call for action comes as Uganda joins the rest of the world in marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign aimed at ending violence against women and girls.
The campaign, which began today, seeks to amplify the need for protective laws and inclusive strategies to combat gender-based violence.
Activists are also encouraging men to play a more active role in speaking out against violence within their households.
They emphasise that fostering dialogue and accountability in families is key to creating safer communities and preventing harm to vulnerable individuals.
This renewed focus on addressing acid attacks and domestic violence is a crucial step toward ensuring justice, safety, and dignity for all.