Rising from Trauma: Agnes’ Story of Resilience in KyakaII Refugee Settlement.

Mukondo village in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement, Kyegegwa District, is a quiet cluster of
homes where children play between small shops and women carry bundles of firewood on their
heads. Amid the daily hustle, Agnes Furaha stands out, not because of wealth or influence, but
because of the story she carries and the hope she has rebuilt for herself and her family.
A Life Shadowed by Violence
Agnes’ early adult life was marked by hardship. Her first marriage in Congo ended in abuse, and
after fleeing to Uganda, her second marriage to a Rwandese man brought more suffering. She
endured sexual and emotional violence, leaving her mentally exhausted. “I thought about ending
my life,” she says quietly. “The pain was too much.”
Unfortunately, Agnes’ story is not unique. In Kyegegwa District, many families in refugee
settlements struggle with GBV compounded by poverty and displacement. As DCDO Kasaijja
Kalya explains, “GBV remains a pressing issue in our communities. Trainings and interventions
are critical to ensure survivors can access support and families can rebuild.”
Healing Through SASA!
Agnes’ turning point came when she participated in SASA! training under the LEAP Project,
implemented by UGANET in partnership with Refugee Law Project and funded by UN
Women. The approach, which focuses on understanding power and shifting social norms,
allowed Agnes to reclaim her voice and begin rebuilding her life.

Through the sessions, she learned strategies for addressing conflict, asserting her rights, and
communicating with her husband. Over time, he began changing too, ceasing violent behavior
and welcoming all their children from previous marriages into one household.
Empowerment Through Enterprise
With her mental health stabilized, Agnes ventured into entrepreneurship, starting a small bar
business in Mukondo village. The income supports her children’s needs and restores her sense
of agency. “I used to wake up with only tears,” she reflects. “Now I wake up with hope, knowing I
can provide for my family.”
The impact of SASA! extends beyond individual households. In Kyaka II, Community Activists
(CAs) and Community Leaders (CLs), trained under LEAP, have reached over 5,000
community members, educating them about GBV, peaceful conflict resolution, and shared
decision-making. Men are increasingly participating in reporting cases, demonstrating a shift in
norms.
Voices from UGANET
Rhonah Babweteera, Head, Gender Equality and VAWG Prevention at UGANET,
underscores the importance of these holistic interventions: “Through the LEAP Project, we are
not just providing legal aid, we are dismantling barriers that silence survivors and limit access to
justice. This approach ensures women like Agnes can heal, assert their rights, and thrive.”
Looking Ahead
Agnes’ journey from trauma to resilience reflects the broader goals of LEAP and SASA!
Together changing norms, empowering survivors, and fostering peaceful family relationships.
Her story shows that with support, guidance, and opportunity, even the most vulnerable can
reclaim control over their lives.
As Kyaka II continues to host thousands of refugees, Agnes’ story is a beacon of hope, proof
that recovery, empowerment, and family harmony are possible, even after repeated adversity.