For over a decade, Ugandan women have been at the forefront of a grassroots movement against land injustices. They use strategic nonviolence and movement-building to challenge systemic injustice and oppression. One powerful tool in their arsenal is the bicycle.
In communities where women are traditionally restricted, the simple act of riding a bicycle has become a symbol of defiance. These women, undeterred by societal norms, have taken to the streets to demand justice for land grabbing, gender-based violence, and other forms of oppression.
A Struggle for Justice
Solidarity Uganda, in partnership with ActionAid Uganda and NETPIL, has been working tirelessly to support these women’s struggles. Through various initiatives, including community trainings, advocacy campaigns, and support visits, they have empowered women to take charge of their destinies.
However, the path to justice has been fraught with challenges. Many women have faced intimidation, harassment, and even violence from those who seek to maintain the status quo. Despite these obstacles, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of land rights and social justice.
On October 9th as Uganda marked 62 years of independence, a group of courageous women from Kiryandongo district organized a bicycle caravan. As they rode through the town center, they made a powerful statement: true independence requires addressing the ongoing injustices that women face.
Jackline Mbonabyenkya, a radio presenter and single mother, eloquently articulated the plight of women in the region. She highlighted the pervasive issue of land grabbing, which has led to a surge in gender-based violence. “Are we truly independent?” she asked her fellow women, emphasizing the stark contrast between political independence and the daily realities of oppression.
“As women, we continue to suffer under the watch of our leaders. What are they doing to help us become truly independent?” Mbonabyenkya questioned. She pointed to the alarming rates of child abuse and early pregnancy, which often leave young girls vulnerable and marginalized.
Land grabbing has further exacerbated women’s economic vulnerability. When husbands pass away, widows often find themselves dispossessed of their land rights, leaving them and their children destitute.
Through their bicycle caravans, these women have created a platform to share their experiences, raise awareness, and demand accountability. Kabalisa Jackline, a victim of land grabbing and gender-based violence, expressed the frustration of seeking justice through corrupt and unresponsive institutions. “Even when we report these injustices, officials demand bribes,” she lamented.
The government’s pursuit of development often comes at the expense of marginalized communities. Land grabbing, often carried out through violent evictions, displaces families and leaves women particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
By embracing the bicycle as a tool for resistance, these women are challenging the status quo and inspiring others to join their fight for justice. Their unwavering determination serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a more equitable future.
