Uganda has launched a nationwide rugby driven initiative aimed at tackling gender based violence, using the sport’s core values to promote respect, discipline and equality among young people.
The programme, unveiled in Kampala and backed by Uganda Rugby Union, Uganda Olympic Committee and Olympic Solidarity, is being spearheaded by Swans Sports Club. It seeks to address the rising cases of violence against women and girls by integrating life skills and safeguarding education into rugby training structures.
Project leader and Swans Sports Club founder Regina Lunyolo said the initiative was inspired by the unique influence sport holds over young people.
“It was motivated by the recognition that sport reaches young people early and consistently, making it a powerful tool for behaviour change,” Lunyolo told Rugby Africa Media.
Through structured sessions built into rugby training, boys are taught about consent, emotional control, accountability and positive masculinity. Coaches double as mentors, encouraging players to challenge harmful behavior in schools and communities.
“We empower boys by using rugby as a platform to teach respect, accountability, emotional control, and positive masculinity. Through structured life-skills sessions integrated into training, boys learn about consent, gender equality, and standing up against violence. Coaches act as mentors, helping boys become allies in preventing GBV in schools and communities. Our target areas include schools, community rugby clubs, and high-risk communities where GBV prevalence is higher,” Lunyolo said.
Although women and girls are disproportionately affected by physical and sexual violence, the programme targets both genders in a bid to create collective responsibility.
“We hope to empower 10 000 girls and boys to stand up against violence in the next three years,” Lunyolo added.
While the current focus remains Uganda, organizers say the framework aligns with global safe sport standards and could be adapted across the region.
Lunyolo, a former Uganda player, believes rugby’s culture makes it the ideal vehicle for the campaign.
“Rugby is highly suitable because it is values-driven. Core rugby values of respect, discipline, integrity, passion, solidarity and family directly align with GBV prevention. The sport naturally teaches controlled strength, respect for rules and opponents, and responsibility for team welfare, which are key in shaping positive behaviour on and off the field.”
The initiative brings together certified rugby coaches trained in safeguarding, life skills facilitators, GBV specialists, teachers and community mentors. All trainers underwent safeguarding and child protection orientation before deployment.
Leaders of the anti GBV programme also presented their model at the 17th General Assembly of Rugby Africa held in Kampala last week, with Swans Sports Club patron James Owaraga delivering the address.
The campaign carries a simple but firm message, hit hard on the field of play, never off it.
