As Uganda prepares to join the rest of the world in marking International Women’s Day on March 8, stories of resilience among women continue to emerge across the country.
International Women’s Day has been officially recognised in Uganda since the National Resistance Movement government came to power under President Museveni.
The annual commemoration highlights women’s achievements while advocating for equal opportunities in education, leadership, employment and national development.
Women play a central role in households, agriculture, trade and community development, and the day also raises awareness about challenges they continue to face, including discrimination, poverty and gender-based violence.
Among the stories emerging this year is that of Lonny Twinamatsiko, a 35-year-old graduate who now works as a toilet attendant and cleaner at public toilets in Kabale.
Twinamatsiko studied Public Administration at Uganda Christian University and also obtained several additional certificates from Makerere University. However, despite her academic qualifications, she has struggled to find formal employment.
When visited at her workplace, Twinamatsiko was busy cleaning the public facility she manages.
In an interview with Nile Post, she explained that the lack of employment opportunities pushed her to take up the job as a way of supporting herself.
To demonstrate her academic background, she presented several of her certificates, confirming her qualifications.
Twinamatsiko said the job, though modest, has enabled her to meet some of her basic needs.
“This work has helped me buy things like a phone, food and other items I use at home,” she said.
However, she noted that the work also comes with several challenges.
“My expenditure is higher than my income. Some customers misuse or dirty the facility excessively, and when it comes time to clean it, I end up spending a lot of money on cleaning,” she explained.
Despite the difficulties, Twinamatsiko says she remains determined and believes no honest job should be looked down upon.
She encouraged young people facing unemployment to remain resilient and be willing to take on any available work while pursuing better opportunities.
As the country prepares to commemorate International Women’s Day, stories like Twinamatsiko’s highlight the realities many educated young Ugandans face in the job market, while also reflecting the determination of women striving to build livelihoods despite limited opportunities.