The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called for stronger support and empowerment of women across all sectors of society, emphasizing their vital role in driving economic growth, family stability, and community development.
In a message shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday to mark International Women’s Day, Mayiga highlighted the resilience, focus, and dedication women bring to every responsibility they undertake.
The Katikkiro accompanied the message with a photograph of himself alongside his wife, Margaret Mayiga, using the occasion to celebrate the contributions of women both within families and in broader society.
“In this 21st century, no one should underestimate the strength and contribution of women. Women often demonstrate remarkable focus and commitment. When entrusted with a role or responsibility, many give it their full dedication. It is this consistency that enables them to steadily build and transform whatever they put their hands on,” Mayiga wrote.
Mayiga pointed to the Emmwanyi Terimba campaign—a Kingdom agricultural initiative to promote coffee growing—as a practical example of how empowering women can yield tangible economic benefits. Through the campaign, the kingdom has strongly encouraged women to participate directly in coffee growing, recognizing their discipline and determination in agricultural production.
“We know that when women engage in agriculture and business, they work with patience, discipline, and determination to achieve good yields and long-term results,” he said.
Mayiga further challenged what he described as outdated attitudes held by some men who discourage women from working out of fear that financial independence may undermine respect within the household.
“I strongly disagree with the outdated thinking of men who discourage women from working because they fear that once women earn money they will lose respect for them. Respect in a family is not built on limiting women; it is built on responsibility, mutual respect, and leadership within the home,” he said.
Mayiga emphasized that women should be supported in all areas of life—including agriculture, business, leadership, and community development—because their success benefits society as a whole.
“Supporting women is not a loss; it is an investment that raises the standards of society,” he said.
