Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District has begun a new drive to strengthen community protection systems after FIDA-Uganda launched the Spotlight 2.0 project during an inception meeting held at MM Hotel on November 13, 2025.
The project, funded through UNDP, focuses on expanding legal aid, improving community awareness and strengthening support for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
It also aims to boost Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services in the district.
FIDA-Uganda Project Officer Adur Lisa said the organisation’s immediate priority is to ensure that vulnerable residents—especially women and children—are able to access justice without being held back by financial limitations.
She noted that many cases go unreported due to fear, stigma and lack of support.
Adur said the Spotlight 2.0 program will work directly with communities, local leaders and service providers to close these gaps through sensitisation, training and legal support.
District leaders welcomed the initiative, saying it arrives at a time when many families are battling rising cases of domestic abuse.
Deputy CAO James Ingoi said stronger collaboration between development partners and district departments is essential for changing the situation on the ground.
LCV Chairperson Francis Abola said the district continues to register worrying levels of GBV and called the project an important boost to local prevention and response efforts.
Resident District Commissioner Erick Masiga challenged FIDA-Uganda to remain fully engaged throughout the implementation period, saying communities expect practical solutions, not promises.
The district leadership pledged to work hand in hand with FIDA-Uganda to ensure local households benefit directly from the Spotlight 2.0 interventions.
