By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
MBARARA
On August 1, 2024, the Grassroots Defenders Fund held its inaugural conference at the Skylight Hotel, marking a significant milestone in its mission to support human rights defenders. The conference saw the donation of 15 computer laptops, worth 20 million Ugandan shillings, to bolster the efforts of these defenders.
Justus Bagamuhunda, the visionary behind the fund, donated the laptops, which were handed over by Tugumisirize Barnabas, National Chairperson of the Grassroots Defenders Board of Directors. Emphasizing the importance of these tools, Barnabas urged members to safeguard them, as they belong to the fund but are intended to facilitate their work in mobilizing support.
The Grassroots Defenders Fund aims to provide critical assistance to human rights defenders facing threats, arrests, or harm while advocating for others. The fund’s objectives include securing resources to aid defenders in their work, covering essential needs such as legal fees, medical expenses, relocation costs, humanitarian and family support, and replacing destroyed equipment.
Barnabas extended an invitation to journalists to join the fund, highlighting its role as an insurance scheme, given their frequent victimization. He reported that the fund has already admitted nine new members and raised a total of three million shillings. However, he acknowledged challenges, including limited funding, which the organization is working to address.
Tugumisirize also highlighted that they intend to train human rights defenders in both physical and computer security. He noted that this will help them to over come some simple security threats or attacks and keeping their gadgets in accessible by unauthorized personnel.
This initiative marks a significant step towards empowering human rights defenders in their crucial work. As the fund continues to grow and expand its support, it is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights.
