By Spy Uganda
Kampala, Uganda – Uganda marked International Women’s Day on Sunday with an all-women military parade at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, highlighting the critical role of women and girls in national development. This year’s celebrations were held under the national theme: “Scaling up Investments to Accelerate Access to Justice for Women and Girls Across Uganda.”
Vice President Jessica Alupo read President Yoweri Museveni’s speech, emphasizing the government’s long-standing commitment to empowering women through education, supportive legislation, and economic programs. “Education and skilling of the girl-child is an effective method of empowering not only women but the entire society,” the President said.
The parade featured women from various security forces and included cultural performances such as songs and dances. Foreign envoys also attended the event, underscoring the international significance of the day.
President Museveni highlighted Uganda’s use of affirmative action to increase women’s representation in public offices, pointing out measures like awarding girls 1.5 additional points for university entry and providing additional political seats. “Women have proved to be better leaders and managers than men,” he said, reflecting on their vital contributions during Uganda’s struggle against past dictatorships.
The President noted that the push for women’s empowerment began in 1986 after his National Resistance Movement (NRM) recognized the untapped potential of women, who make up more than half of the population. He explained that historically, women were disadvantaged due to limited access to education and opportunities, yet they were central to the subsistence economy. The introduction of free education, he said, particularly benefited girls, who had often been left behind.
Over the last four decades, the NRM government has consistently promoted women to leadership and managerial positions. In the current Cabinet of 81 ministers, 37 are women, including Vice President Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja. The number of female Members of Parliament has grown to 189, representing women from districts, constituencies, the army, youth, workers, persons with disabilities, and older persons.
The 2024 National Population and Housing Census confirmed that Uganda has 23.5 million women compared to 22.3 million men, emphasizing the importance of women in shaping the nation’s future.
Sunday’s commemoration underscored that while Uganda has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, continuous efforts are needed to ensure women and girls access justice, education, and economic opportunities to reach their full potential.
