Volume 08 Issue 01 January 2025
1Venantie Muhimpundu (PhD Candidate), 2Prof. Rogers Barigayomwe, Ph.D.
1,2Department of Development, Peace and Conflict Studies Kampala International University
DOI : https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v8-i1-67Google Scholar Download Pdf
ABSTRACT
This study examines the role of international actors in providing psychosocial support to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement. Employing a pragmatic research philosophy, a mixed-methods approach was utilized, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the psychosocial challenges faced by refugees. A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 166 participants, including 151 household heads and key informants such as local leaders and NGO representatives. Results revealed that an overwhelming 87% of respondents reported being psychologically affected by GBV, underscoring the urgent need for effective psychosocial interventions. The data indicated that 45.2% of survivors benefited from psychosocial support, enabling them to resume normal lives after experiencing depression. However, significant gaps remain, including economic instability and limited access to legal services, which hinder recovery and reintegration efforts. The findings highlight the critical importance of coordinated efforts among international actors, local governments, and community organizations to enhance the effectiveness of psychosocial support for GBV survivors. Recommendations include strengthening multi-sectoral collaboration, improving access to legal services, and addressing underlying socio-economic factors contributing to GBV in refugee contexts. This study contributes to the discourse on GBV in humanitarian settings and emphasizes the need for sustained investment in mental health and psychosocial services.
KEYWORDS:Gender-based violence, psychosocial support, refugees, international actors, Nakivale, mental health, humanitarian settings, community organizations, legal services, mixed-methods research.
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