This assignment involved conducting a baseline study and rapid assessment to support the implementation of the Gender, Peace and Accountability Project (GPAP) in Wakiso, Mubende and Mityana districts.

The assessment examined the prevalence and underlying drivers of gender-based violence, citizens’ awareness of their rights and responsibilities, the capacity of civil society organisations, and the extent to which local planning and budgeting processes responded to gender and peace concerns. It also identified gaps in civic participation, accountable governance and the protection of women’s and children’s rights.

The findings provided evidence to guide project implementation, establish baseline indicators and support the measurement of progress throughout the project period.

GPAP was designed to address gender-based violence by strengthening the capacity of civil society organisations, women, men and children in:

• Civic education and meaningful citizen participation
• Accountable and responsive governance
• Prevention of and response to gender-based violence
• Gender- and peace-responsive planning and budgeting
• Advocacy for the protection of women’s and children’s rights

Through these interventions, the project aimed to increase citizens’ awareness of their rights, roles and responsibilities; strengthen community participation in governance; and promote greater demand for gender-responsive public services and accountability.

Ultimately, the project sought to build safer and more inclusive communities in which women, men and children could participate meaningfully in decision-making, hold duty-bearers accountable and contribute to sustainable peace and development.