The Survivor Support Network is an initiative dedicated to empowering survivors of acid attacks through a survivor-led approach. Established five years ago, its primary goal is to combat acid attack violence in Uganda by placing survivors at the forefront of advocacy, support, and community reintegration.
Motivation:
The network was founded with the belief that survivors should lead the fight against acid attack violence, promoting an Asset-Based Community-Driven Approach (ABCD) to change the narrative around acid attacks in Uganda. The approach focuses on empowering survivors to become proactive, independent citizens who mentor others, eliminate stigma, and advocate for change in their communities.
Key Objectives:
- Survivor-Led Advocacy: Survivors are encouraged to take the lead in the fight against acid attack violence, promoting a zero-tolerance culture and raising awareness both locally and internationally.
- Support Groups: Survivor support groups have been formed to provide psychosocial support, empower individuals, and help them reintegrate into society with dignity.
- Mentorship & Ambassadorship: Survivors are mentored to become ambassadors, leading campaigns in their communities, combating discrimination, and raising awareness about the dangers of acid attacks.
- Economic Empowerment: The network has pioneered skills development training to promote survivors' economic sustainability by connecting them with opportunities for growth, marketing their skills, and participating in exhibitions.
Achievements:
- Global Recognition: The network's advocacy efforts have gained international attention, from the UK to the USA and Canada. They have successfully lobbied for survivor rights, leading to stronger legislation, such as the passing of the Toxic Chemical Prohibition Bill in Uganda.
- Evidence-Based Advocacy: The network was instrumental in presenting the first-ever survivor-led petition to Uganda’s president and parliament, driving legislative changes to protect against acid attacks.
- Building a Movement: The network's survivor-led model has empowered past ambassadors to form new survivor groups across Uganda, strengthening the voices against acid attack violence.
The Survivor Support Network continues to champion a facilitator leadership model, ensuring that survivors lead the way in transforming their communities and living independent, empowered lives.