Uganda’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment: Insights from President Museveni

President Museveni emphasized the deliberate empowerment of women during International Women’s Day celebrations, acknowledging Uganda’s progress in gender equality compared to some European nations. He advocated for free education and underscored the importance of preserving the environment. Key figures, including the Vice President and UN Coordinator, highlighted women’s empowerment achievements while addressing ongoing challenges.

President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda affirmed his administration’s focus on empowering women, a commitment made since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) took power. He expressed gratitude to Sweden’s Ambassador for acknowledging Uganda’s democratic progress compared to some European nations, emphasizing that women’s empowerment was a deliberate policy from the beginning of his leadership after 1986. He underscored the integration of women into the military following the fall of Idi Amin in 1979 but noted that initial resistance delayed their acceptance.

Speaking at the International Women’s Day celebrations in Kyankwanzi district, President Museveni highlighted the day’s theme, “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” emphasizing the need for strategic interventions to achieve gender equality. His statements followed Ambassador Maria Håkansson of Sweden’s recognition of Uganda’s strides towards fulfilling the Beijing Declaration, noting that the country serves as a model for others in the region regarding women’s rights and representation.

President Museveni reiterated that Empowerment spans beyond gender, advocating for free education, which is vital for society’s overall upliftment. He noted that while Uganda has made significant progress through programs such as Universal Primary and Secondary Education, compliance remains an issue. He underscored the importance of the Parish Development Model to transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture.

He raised concerns about environmental degradation caused by human encroachment and its role in the current dry spell afflicting the country. The President stressed the necessity of preserving natural resources, cautioning against deforestation and wetland encroachment.

Uganda’s Vice President Jessica Alupo praised Museveni for being a champion of women’s rights, noting how his leadership has initiated growth and enabled women’s participation in leadership roles. She highlighted increased enrollment of girls in schools, crediting NRM’s policies for breaking traditional barriers.

Minister of State for Gender and Culture Peace Mutuuzo acknowledged President Museveni’s consistent support of International Women’s Day, celebrating the achievements made under his administration. She stressed the importance of implementation over mere ratification of gender equality agreements, thanking the First Lady for her achievements in education.

The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, emphasized the significance of affirmative action in encouraging girls’ education. The Chairperson of the National Women Council, Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, appreciated government programs facilitating women’s economic empowerment and overcoming challenges such as gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, and child marriage.

Mr. Leonard Zulu, the UN Resident Coordinator, called for strengthened endeavors towards Sustainable Development Goal five, emphasizing collaboration in enhancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Uganda. During the same event, President Museveni awarded dummy cheques to various beneficiary groups under the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, aimed at bolstering women’s access to financial services.

International Women’s Day is rooted in the historical struggle for women’s equal participation in all societal sectors.

In conclusion, President Museveni reiterated his administration’s commitment to empowering women as a central focus since taking office. Celebrating International Women’s Day, he highlighted Uganda’s progress in gender equality, as acknowledged by Sweden’s Ambassador. The importance of education, environmental preservation, and strategic initiatives like the Parish Development Model were also emphasized. Overall, the event showcased the collective efforts to bolster women’s rights and participation while addressing ongoing challenges in gender equality.

Original Source: allafrica.com