Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, Chairperson of the Anti- Sexual Harassment Committe(standing in middle)
The Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee of the Judiciary, chaired by Supreme Court's Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, today held an Awareness Campaign at Hoima High Court.
The Committee established under the Administration of the Judiciary Act, held the Campaign to sensitize and equip Staff of the Judiciary with the skills and knowledge needed to eliminate sexual harassment.
Addressing the Staff, Justice Tibatemwa highlighted challenges of reporting sexual harassment, emphasizing the need to openly discuss a problem that often remains hidden. She stated, "The Judiciary is aware of the existence of sexual harassment and has taken steps to ensure that perpetrators, as well as potential perpetrators, understand that it is NOT business as usual."
Justice Tibatemwa stated that sexual harassment involves unwelcome behaviour from the victim's perspective, distinguishing it from consensual workplace interactions that may lead to personal relationships. She also noted the role of power imbalances in perpetuating the vice, such as using authority to transfer officers or influence deployments.
Justice Tibatemwa emphasized the negative impact of harassment on workplace productivity.
She reassured members that sensitization efforts would continue through training sessions, inductions, and conferences. And encouraged participants to report cases and seek counselling when needed.
Justice Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema, the Resident Judge of Hoima, highlighted the Campaign's importance in creating a harassment-free working environment. He noted, "We spend more hours at work than anywhere else, so it is essential to ensure this space is free from abuse." He urged attendees to listen carefully and ask questions in order to benefit fully from the initiative.
The Hoima Resident City Commissioner, Badru Mugabi, commended the Judiciary for addressing a pervasive issue affecting service delivery. He pointed out that while efforts to empower women have been made the boy child is equally at riskof harassment.
Counselor Susan Tashobya, from SMC Limited/Judiciary Counseling Services, emphasized that counseling is the first step in addressing mental health issues caused by harassment. She advised attendees to seek help early to prevent problems from escalating into anxiety or depression. She also reassured participants of confidentiality, encouraging them to embrace professional counseling as animportant tool for healing.
Mr. Tadeo Tumusiime from the Uganda AIDS Information Center, gave a presentation on the effects and costs of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Participants appreciated the training, expressing their gratitude and requested that similar programs be continuously conducted in the future.
Judicial Officers of different stations were handed materials to do with sexual harassment for their courts.
The Committee members in attendance included; Lady Justice Flavia Nassuna Matovu, Committee Secretary, Deputy Registrar HW Dorothy Lwanga, HW Martins Kirya, among others.
Posted 28th, November 2024
