In Uganda, violence against women is very common, not only among families but also in public spaces that otherwise should socially, economically and politically bring people together for the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of towns and cities.

To help make cities such as Kampala a place of inclusion, tolerance and opportunity where girls can thrive, Plan International runs the Safer Cities for Girls program. Safer Cities for Girls brings together community members, local authorities, Ugandan government and community-based NGOs to address the increased risks and opportunities for adolescent girls in cities.

As part of the program, Plan International conduct safety walks in Kampala to identify factors that make girls feel unsafe in their communities and map out routes to their safety and inclusiveness. The program also provides girls with a platform to discuss the issues they face and the opportunity to provide input into the development of cities. It allows girls to have a voice, so that cities meet their specific needs around sanitation, education, public spaces, transport and access to city services.

Creating safe cities for girls creates long-term economic and social change that will benefit everyone. Safe cities are crucial to achieving gender equality because they will allow the girls who live in them to access all the opportunities they offer.

Plan International works in partnership with Women in Cities International and UN-HABITAT and is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).