President Yoweri Museveni reaffirmed his administration’s focus on empowering women during the International Women’s Day celebrations. Highlighting Uganda’s advancements in gender equality, he stated that significant efforts have been made since the NRM came into power. The event, attended by dignitaries including the Swedish Ambassador, underscored the importance of education and strategic action towards gender equity despite ongoing challenges.
President Yoweri Museveni emphasized the commitment of his administration to women’s empowerment during his remarks at the International Women’s Day celebrations in Kyankwanzi. He recalled the deliberate measures taken since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) assumed power to integrate women into various sectors, including the military, despite initial challenges faced in the 1970s.
The event, which took place on March 8, 2025, focused on the theme “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” highlighting the pressing need for actions promoting gender parity. Notably, Ambassador Maria Håkansson of Sweden acknowledged Uganda’s advancements in women’s rights and representation in politics, asserting that the nation serves as a model for others in the region.
In his address, President Museveni advocated for a holistic approach to societal emancipation through free education, initiated in Uganda in 1997. He noted that improved access to education would significantly enhance opportunities for girls, emphasizing the importance of programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) for transitioning households to more commercial agricultural practices.
Furthermore, the president addressed environmental issues, pointing out that degradation caused by encroachment and deforestation exacerbates drought conditions. He expressed that such practices lead to significant environmental consequences, affecting both local and regional climates.
The Vice President, Jessica Alupo, praised President Museveni’s leadership in advocating for women’s rights, noting that women have gained representation and leadership opportunities unprecedented in Africa. She mentioned that girls are now pursuing formerly male-dominated fields, such as aviation and engineering, thanks to reforms in the education sector.
Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Peace Mutuuzo, acknowledged President Museveni’s continuous support for women, commending Uganda’s proactive implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action. She highlighted success in achieving gender equality in the education sector and pointed out milestones reached over the past 30 years.
Despite notable progress, several challenges remain, as highlighted by Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, Chairperson of the National Women Council. She identified issues such as gender-based violence, early pregnancies, and child marriages, which continue to undermine women’s empowerment goals in Uganda.
Mr. Leonard Zulu, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, appealed for unified efforts in promoting gender equality aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 5. He underscored the necessity of collective action to enhance women’s role in development.
During the event, President Museveni presented dummy cheques to beneficiaries of the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, an initiative providing financial access and training for women. The occasion also recognized individuals with outstanding service awards and featured a ceremonial parade of women in military leadership positions.
International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality, stemming from the historical movements advocating for women’s rights in social, political, and economic realms.
In conclusion, President Museveni’s administration continues to prioritize women’s empowerment through strategic interventions in education, leadership, and economic engagement. His remarks at the International Women’s Day celebrations signify Uganda’s commitment to gender equality and the recognition of women’s contributions to national development. Despite facing ongoing challenges such as gender violence and limited access to resources, collaborative efforts from government, civil society, and international partners are essential in achieving lasting change and ensuring women’s rights and empowerment in Uganda.
Original Source: allafrica.com
