Sexual and gender-based violence among adolescents and young adults in refugee settlements and host communities: A case of Palorinya Refugee Settlement in Obongi District, Uganda

Abstract

Objective

This study established the prevalence and correlates of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) among adolescents and young adults aged 13–24 in refugee and host communities in Obongi District of Uganda as of June 2022.

Study design

The study was cross-sectional and the participants were adolescents (13–19 years) and young adults (20–24 years) in both refugee and host communities.

Methods

Using a stratified sampling technique 801 participants were identified in the settlement's five zones and interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The main outcome of interest was the experience of SGBV in previous 12 months and factors associated with it were determined using modified Poisson multivariable regression analysis technique.

Results

Most of the respondents (82.7 %) perceived SGBV occurred in their community and 13.6 % reported that they had experienced it in the previous 12 months. However, less than half (48 %) of those who experienced it reported the incident to the police or other authorities. Factors significantly associated with SGBV were being female (APR = 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.08–2.70), attaining vocational/tertiary education (APR = 2.18, 95 % CI: 1.02–4.69), being married [monogamous marriage (APR = 2.64, 95 % CI: 1.53–4.55), polygamous marriage (APR = 3.58, 95%CI: 1.86–6.89)], and being Ugandan (APR = 2.20, 95 % CI: 1.33–3.63).

Conclusion

The findings highlight a concerning prevalence of SGBV among adolescents and young adults within both refugee and host communities, compounded by substantial under-reporting to authorities. Urgent attention is needed to implement targeted interventions that prioritize the protection of women, married individuals, and Ugandan households in and around settlements, while also providing comprehensive support for survivors. Further research should be conducted to explore the connection between tertiary education and SGBV to inform prevention strategies.