Alur King Declares Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence

As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence concludes, His Royal Majesty Rwoth Ubimu Philip Olarker Rauni III of the Alur Kingdom has declared that any violence against women and girls will not be tolerated within the kingdom. The seven-point declaration, issued on December 9, 2024, aligns with the campaign theme, "Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls," from November 25 to December 10, 2024.

The declaration was shared in a press statement dated December 10, 2024, by the Director of Communications, David Rupiny. The King emphasized the use of Alur cultural values, principles, and norms such as kura matira (positive cultural relations) to condemn and address violence against women and girls. The King declared that any act of violence against women and girls must be immediately reported to relevant authorities for redress, and grassroots leaders are required to support this effort.

Chiefs, cultural leaders, parents, and elders must educate children on cultural values that protect women and girls, emphasizing kura matira and ajaa (truth-telling). Families are encouraged to revive kami, traditional learning systems, which should focus on environmental protection, security, and age-appropriate content for children.

Leadership structures are urged to ensure women’s inclusive participation and equitable opportunities. Chiefs and cultural leaders are required to verify the ages and consent of couples during marriage ceremonies, issuing traditional marriage certificates only after verification to prevent child marriages. Traditional justice systems must incorporate principles of ajaa, kura matira, justice, and duty of care to ensure accessibility for women and youth.

Rwoth Ubimu Rauni III has instructed chiefs, in collaboration with the Kingdom’s Secretariat, to publicize the declaration and ensure its enforcement. Chiefs are also directed to partner with stakeholders including religious leaders and community development organizations—to protect women, girls, and youth from abuse. The Alur King also noted that aspects of the declaration have been incorporated into the Council of Traditional Leaders in Africa (COTLA) Uganda Chapter’s joint declaration promoting girl-child education and retention in schools.