FOWODE to construct shs28bn Imara Women Centre to as a platform to champion gender equality
Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) has unveiled the Imara Women’s Centre (IWC) corporate identity as an initiative to provide a safe space for every girl and woman
The initiative unveiled under the theme “Our strength our hope” will also be a visible embodiment of women’s independent organizations and a vital practical base from which to advance the struggle for gender equality.
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“The Imara is that space where we will have an opportunity to safety from the pressures of the patriarchy, rejuvenate our wellness, gather in our diversities and talents, and a launch pad for campaigns that will promote gender equality. On the whole, it is a firm anchor in a country where we see regression and stagnation on the democratic front, “said Patricia Munabi, the Executive Director of FOWODE.
She explained that the word Imara stands for bold, strong, and firm and that the the logo is an expression of a woman or girl who stands her ground and is not afraid to take her place in society.
“Her outstretched arms are accepting of all challenges she faces with boldness, she is welcoming and daring, she is the stronghold of Imara. Her head wrap is her crown, and the ring over her head stands for continuity. The purple colour signifies confidence, power, ambition, wisdom, independence and authority. Light blue speaks of calm, peaceful, reliable, gentle and tranquil; and the dark pink colour stands for femininity, warmth, hope, acceptance and intuition,”Munabi said.
Sylvia Muwebwa, the Vice Chairperson of the FOWODE board said the Imara Women Centre is another expression of freedom with a vision to anchor and benefit our successors too.
“We envision a Uganda where Women have equal rights in society, and part of this dream will be achieved by realizing this establishment,” Muwebwa said.
She noted that they are in the first phase of fundraising for the construction of the centre at its home in Gayaza that will cost USD7.8 million to be raised over a period of five years.
The centre will have a residency block with a gym, health facilities, dance studio, accommodation; and a five floor office block of two floors of lettable space, FOWODE office space, a Library, two auditoriums, a museum, and a restaurant.
State Minister for Investment and Privatization, Evelyn Anite hailed FOWODE for its efforts to empower women to become leaders in the country.
“I was inspired by a woman to join politics and my political journey started with the Radio One Ekimeeza program. Along the way I joined FOWODE’s mentorship program that gave me direction to join elective politics,”Anite said.
“As a government, we have worked with FOWODE and other institutions to champion gender-responsive budgeting and now Uganda has a certificate of gender and equity in law. We are the first country in the world to have such a requirement in law.”
Minister Anite urged the public to contribute to the construction of Imara centre that she said will ensure that young men and women benefit from transformative leadership development and mentorship
Jamila Mayanja, the founder and CEO of Smart Girls Foundation, which trains young girls and women to build self-esteem, leadership, governance and employability skills, narrated the success and achievement of the foundation and applauded the promise of the Imara Women’s Centre.
“We pledge to join efforts with FOWODE to mentor a nation where young women need affirmation to take their stand in society through skilling and confidence, to be able to make decisions and transform their communities.”
