Ugandan women have raised their voices in unison, urging the implementation of laws and policies to secure gender equity and equality, women’s financial liberation, reproductive health rights, leadership opportunities, and an end to violence against women.
This impassioned call emerged on Tuesday during the 3rd annual Sisterhood Forum organized by the Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE).
Under the theme, “Staying on Course for A Stronger and Influential Women’s Movement,” participants at the forum aimed to address obstacles hindering progress in advancing gender equality, foster cross-generational learning, and build synergies for a more dynamic and inclusive women’s movement.
Despite significant strides made by the women's movement, there is a shared acknowledgement that more effort is needed for a truly equal future.
Patricia Munabi Babiiha, Executive Director of FOWODE, highlighted the achievements facilitated by the Sisterhood Forum, including the enactment of several laws and policies such as the Domestic Violence Act, the anti-FGM Act, the prohibition of human trafficking, and the Public Finance and Management Act. However, she expressed concern over the challenge of implementing these laws, emphasizing the need for practical enforcement.
Munabi further stressed the importance of a united and diverse women’s movement, calling for continued advocacy and government support to ensure the effective implementation of existing laws.
She noted the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, citing an increase in violence against women, child dropouts from school, early marriages, and teenage pregnancies.
Dr Zahara Nampewo, Deputy Principal at the School of Law at Makerere University, added crucial insights, pointing out that 75% of women in Uganda, particularly in rural areas, face challenges in accessing agricultural land.
She highlighted the gender-based violence surge during the COVID-19 period, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts to address various challenges affecting women in both rural and urban settings.
Dr. Nampewo also addressed issues of sexual harassment in workplaces, urging action and collaborative efforts.
"The media has run stories about sex for marks at Makerere University; some stories may not be verified, but some are true," she stated.
As the women's movement faces multifaceted challenges, the resounding call from the forum is for collective action, continued advocacy, and tangible measures to ensure the well-being and empowerment of women across Uganda.
