Jesca Ruth Ataa

Jesca Ruth Ataa is a Ugandan human rights defender, Activist and the leader of Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA), a community-based organization in Kotido, Karamoja. Established in 2002, NARWOA addresses issues including domestic violence, political instability, and economic empowerment for women. Ataa's work has reached over 15,000 women and 250,000 children. She was shortlisted for the 2024 EU Human Rights Defenders Award.

Background and education Jesca Ruth Ataa was born in Kotido, Karamoja, Uganda where her background and experiences in the region have significantly influenced her advocacy work.

Impact and recognition In 2024, she was shortlisted for the EU Human Rights Defenders Award, recognizing her significant contributions to human rights in Uganda.

Contributions to peace and conflict resolution Ataa has been actively involved in peacebuilding initiatives. She has coordinated efforts with various organizations to mediate conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence in Karamoja. For instance, NARWOA organized peace expositions with funding from the Norwegian Government, facilitating dialogues between grassroots communities and policymakers on post-conflict reconstruction plans.