This article details President Yoweri Museveni’s commitment to empowering women, emphasizing governance reforms since the NRM’s rise to power. During International Women’s Day 2025, he acknowledged women’s historical contributions and highlighted ongoing initiatives promoting gender equality in education, economic empowerment, and political representation, while also warning against environmental degradation. Stakeholders called for continued efforts towards these goals in line with Sustainable Development Goals.
President Yoweri Museveni emphasized his administration’s commitment to empowering women, a focus that has been integral since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) assumed power. During celebrations for International Women’s Day in March 2025, he expressed gratitude to Ambassador Maria Håkansson of Sweden for acknowledging Uganda’s advanced democracy compared to some European nations. He shared historical context regarding women’s roles during Uganda’s transition from conflict, noting the significant contributions of women in the fight to end Idi Amin’s regime.
The theme of the International Women’s Day event was “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” promoting urgent strategies for achieving equality. Museveni referenced the ambassador’s praise for Uganda’s progress on women’s rights, highlighting the country’s strides in legal protections and representation of women in leadership. Håkansson pointed out the notable advancements in Uganda compared to Sweden regarding women’s representation in politics.
President Museveni also stressed broader societal empowerment through initiatives such as free education, introduced in 1997, which he asserted would have improved educational outcomes for girls had it been fully implemented without local financial barriers. He encouraged attendees to embrace the Parish Development Model as a pathway to shifting their economic focus from subsistence to commercial agriculture. Additionally, he warned against environmental mismanagement, which exacerbates climate issues.
Vice President Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo commended Museveni for fostering an environment conducive to women’s development, noting that women now participate exceptionally in various sectors, traditionally dominated by men. She attributed progress in girl child education to governmental policies enabling girls to pursue studies in areas like engineering and aviation.
The Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Peace Mutuuzo, expressed her appreciation for Museveni’s unwavering support for women and highlighted the educational advancements achieved under his leadership, especially in primary and secondary education equality. Betty Amongi, the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, reiterated the significance of affirmative action in promoting girls’ education and empowerment.
Furthermore, Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, Chairperson of the National Women Council, acknowledged government programs that have uplifted community women economically but also pointed out ongoing challenges such as gender-based violence and teenage pregnancies that need addressing. Mr. Leonard Zulu, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, called for renewed efforts toward achieving gender equality within the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
During the proceedings, President Museveni awarded dummy cheques to beneficiaries of the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, aimed at enhancing women’s access to financial opportunities. A display of an all-women parade underscored women’s increasing roles in the military and public life. The International Women’s Day celebrates women’s historical struggles for equal participation in all societal aspects.
In conclusion, President Museveni’s remarks during the International Women’s Day celebrations reflect a strong commitment to the empowerment of women in Uganda through education, legal frameworks, and economic initiatives. Despite commendable progress, ongoing challenges such as gender-based violence remain obstacles. The collective efforts from government leaders and international partners are essential for advancing gender equality in Uganda and fulfilling global commitments by 2030.
Original Source: allafrica.com
