EMPOWERING GBV SURVIVORS THROUGH KITCHEN GARDENING INITIATIVE

In a bid to strengthen the resilience of survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Namutumba and Kamuli district, Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET) launched a kitchen gardening initiative aimed at promoting economic empowerment and self-reliance. The program equips survivors with the skills to
grow their own food sustainably, not only for household consumption but also to generate income through the sale of surplus produce. The initiative is part of UWONET’s broader strategy to foster economic independence among GBV survivors.

Training sessions focused on cultivation of commonly preferred vegetables such as cabbage, sukuma wiki, bugga, green pepper, tomatoes, and eggplants. Crops were selected based on the preferences expressed by the participants, ensuring relevance and practical application. A total of 60 participants benefited from the program, gaining knowledge and hands-on experience in vegetable kitchen gardening. The training was conducted at UWONET shelters, where a demonstration garden was also established.

The training combined theoretical instruction and hands-on practice. Participants learned about organic compost, pesticides, & fertilizers; nursery bed setup with proper measurements; seedling transplantation; and organic liquid fertilizer preparation. Practical sessions allowed them to apply this knowledge directly, boosting their skills and confidence in managing kitchen gardens effectively. Using materials such as green grass, cow dung, and other domestic animal droppings, women were encouraged to adopt composting as a sustainable farming practice.

Experienced trainers with a strong background in kitchen gardening and community-based agricultural practices were engaged. Trainers ensured effective communication and
contextual relevance. Their familiarity with the region’s soil types and preferred vegetable
varieties enhanced the practicality of the training. Additionally, an agricultural extension worker participated in the training to provide technical support and ensure the sustainability of the initiative. Sessions included; Growing
Vegetables and Fruits, What it takes to grow Vegetables, Taking care of soils, Starting a vegetable garden, Vegetable propagation, sowing and management.

Ms. Kampi Susan from Kamuli said; “I’ve learned how to make a nursery bed with proper measurements. I used to plant seeds without knowing how a nursery bed should be made. I also learned that relying on men for financial support can increase gender-based violence. I now plan to grow vegetables for sale, so I can meet some household needs on my own.”

Ms. Naome, a GBV survivor from Kamuli, shared; “I have been growing vegetables with my children, but the results were never appealing. I didn’t know how to take care of them properly. I have all the materials needed for making manure and pesticides, but I didn’t know how to use them. Now that I do, and I will put this knowledge to use.”

Women learnt that; Neem leaves, Chili pepper, Garlic, Onions enhance the effectiveness of repellents, Wood ash helps combat soft-bodied insects. The session also covered the preparation of liquid manure (green manure) using locally available materials to support soil fertility. In addition, women were taught how to make organic pesticides to protect vegetables from harmful pests and insects.