Ivan Bwowe co-authors study on discrimination and mental health
GRÓ GEST alumnus Ivan Bwowe (Uganda, 2020) has co-authored a new research article published on 3 November 2026 in the international peer-reviewed journal BMC Public Health. The study examines the relationship between disability, discrimination and mental health among young women living in poverty in Kampala, Uganda.
The article, Disability, discrimination and mental health concerns among young women living in urban poverty: empirical analyses of the TOPOWA study, draws on research involving 300 women aged 18–24 in three low-income communities in Kampala. It found that 14% of participants reported disabilities affecting their daily activities, while nearly 70% had experienced major discrimination. Women with disabilities reported higher levels of discrimination, while experiences of discrimination were associated with increased anxiety, psychological distress, suicidal thoughts and poorer quality of life.
The researchers emphasise the need for interventions that address both the structural and interpersonal dimensions of discrimination, including improved access to mental health services, community-based support and policies promoting social inclusion.
Ivan is a lawyer and managing partner at Alto Advocates in Uganda. He was also selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow in 2024. Alongside his legal practice, he contributes to research addressing social inequalities and the rights and well-being of marginalised populations.
Ivan attended GRÓ GEST in 2020, specialising in Gender and Migration. His final assignment, Combating Trafficking of Women and Girls: Labour Externalization from Uganda to the Middle East, examined the exploitation and abuse of Ugandan women migrating for employment. The project proposed stronger legal protections, improved enforcement, greater accountability for recruitment agencies and more comprehensive support for victims of trafficking.
Ivan credits knowledge gained during his studies at GRÓ GEST with contributing to his subsequent research. His latest publication reflects a continued commitment to examining how discrimination, inequality and structural barriers affect the lives and rights of women.
GRÓ GEST is delighted to see its alumni contributing to international research collaborations that generate evidence on gender inequality and inform policies and interventions to improve people's lives. Ivan's work illustrates the value of bringing gender perspectives and human rights expertise into research across disciplines.