Women From Three Christian Denominations Rally for Female Political Participation in 2026

Women from the Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox churches have called on fellow women to actively participate in Uganda’s 2026 general elections, urging them to seek leadership positions beyond religious institutions.

Speaking at a prayer session at the Catholic Shrine in Namugongo ahead of International Women’s Day, Ann Rhita Nakyeyune, the head of Catholic women in Kampala Archdiocese, emphasised the need for women to embrace political leadership.

“Women should be encouraged to take up leadership roles beyond the church and actively engage in the political affairs of our country,” she said.

The prayer gathering brought together women from the three denominations, who prayed for women’s empowerment, the nation, and its leaders.

Dressed in distinctive gomesi colours—yellow for Catholics, blue for Orthodox, and green for Anglicans—they symbolised unity in diversity.

Rev. Fr. Denis Yiga, head of the youth in Kampala Archdiocese and the lead celebrant at the service, urged women to embrace self-confidence and recognise their significance in society.

“Women are uniquely created, and they play a vital role in shaping communities, just as heads are crucial in prayer,” he said.

Vice President Jessica Alupo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to championing women’s rights and eliminating discrimination against them.

“The government is committed to upholding women’s rights and ensuring their full participation in all sectors of development,” she said.

After the prayers, women from across the country fetched blessed water from Namugongo as a symbol of divine favour.

As Uganda prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day, religious leaders and women’s groups continue to push for greater female participation in politics, stressing that women’s voices must be heard at all levels of leadership.