Gender-Specific Challenges Faced by Juvenile Offenders in Uganda: A Case Study of Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Center, Mpigi District

This study examined the gender-specific challenges faced by juvenile offenders in Uganda, focusing on Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Centre. A cross-sectional study design employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches was used. Data were collected from 99 juveniles through structured questionnaires, achieving a 100% response rate, and from 9 key informants through interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically to complement the statistical findings. The findings revealed that juveniles experience multiple psychological, institutional, and family-related challenges during rehabilitation. Psychological and emotional challenges (19.1%) and institutional/structural challenges (19.2%) were among the most reported. The study established clear gender differences: girls faced unique vulnerabilities including pregnancy, reproductive health needs, emotional distress, and stigma, while boys were more associated with aggression, substance abuse, peer influence, and involvement in serious offences. Nearly half (46.5%) reported experiencing discrimination, and 52.5% indicated that girls face more stigma than boys. Counselling (80.8%), skills training (70.7%), and education (64.6%) were identified as the most helpful services. 40.4% rated the programs as not effective in shaping behavior. The study further found strong support (90.9%) for implementing separate or gender-responsive strategies. The study concludes that while rehabilitation services at Kampiringisa National Rehabilitation Centre provide essential support, they require strengthening through structured gender-responsive, trauma-informed, and livelihood-oriented approaches.

Juvenile Offenders, Gender-Specific Challenges, Gender-Responsive Rehabilitation

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