Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) often face immense emotional and physical challenges in their work, combating gender inequality and advocating for vulnerable groups. The toll on their well-being is undeniable. In response to this, the Women Human Rights Defenders Network Uganda (WHRDN-U) has prioritized a holistic approach to self-care and wellness, creating a safe space for WHRDs to recharge and focus on their health.
On 26th February 2024, WHRDN-U organized a self-care session for 13 WHRDs at Spa Mania Wellness Centre. This event provided a much-needed respite, offering a combination of therapies designed to relieve the stress and burnout experienced by these tireless defenders of human rights. The session included group counseling, therapeutic massages, and relaxation therapies such as Jacuzzis and steam baths, all aimed at enhancing mental and physical wellness.
The WHRDs who attended shared powerful stories of resilience, from battling online harassment to dealing with the emotional toll of gender-based violence and social stigmatization. These activists, often operating in challenging environments, are subjected to threats, intimidation, and fatigue, which can significantly impact their well-being. The self-care session allowed them to process their experiences, learn stress management techniques, and reflect on their emotional and physical needs.
As one participant shared, “The counselling session has been so helpful for my emotional wellbeing. I have learned to let go of the stress I’ve been carrying for so long.” Another stated, “The body massage and steam bath were incredibly relieving. It taught me to prioritize my own well-being.”
WHRDN-U’s initiative highlights the importance of self-care for WHRDs, emphasizing that protecting their health is essential to sustaining their activism. By fostering collective care, WHRDN-U ensures that these women can continue their vital work in advocating for human rights without compromising their mental or physical health.
This session serves as a reminder that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for those who dedicate their lives to making the world a better place. It is crucial that more organizations follow this example, offering support and wellness opportunities to WHRDs who tirelessly champion justice and equality.
Article published by Brenda Kugonza, Executive Director of WHRDN-U