Janet Museveni Calls for Women’s Digital Inclusion

The Minister for Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, has urged women to embrace digital transformation and actively participate in the technological revolution to enhance their economic opportunities.

In a speech read by the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hellen Adoa, during the belated International Women’s Day celebrations in Lira District, Mrs. Museveni emphasized that digital inclusion is key to women’s advancement, particularly in entrepreneurship, education, and agriculture.

“Our world and the advancement of technology are evolving very fast. Women, both young and old, must shift their thinking that this is a man’s world and that they require permission to take advantage of the progress and transformation around us,” she said.

She described technology as a powerful tool that can help women increase productivity, market their products more efficiently, and access financial and business opportunities beyond their immediate communities.

“For acceleration to happen, we need to witness more women being supported to understand the changing methods of production and marketing of their products through embracing technology. This will increase their productivity and incomes,” she added.

Mrs. Museveni noted that despite progress, many women, especially in rural areas, remain excluded from the digital economy due to lack of access, skills, and awareness.

She stressed the need for training programs to equip women with digital literacy skills so they can fully participate in the digital age.

“Women must be supported to overcome the socio-economic barriers that prevent them from engaging meaningfully in this era of information technology. We must equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital world,” she said.

While advocating for digital inclusion, the First Lady also expressed concern over the misuse of social media, particularly among young people, warning that excessive preoccupation with social media trends is affecting education, mental health, and personal development.

“The alarming rate at which the younger generation is obsessed with building a social media presence is concerning. This preoccupation steals their time, resources, and intellectual growth, negatively affecting their education progress and, in some cases, their mental health,” she warned.

Mrs. Museveni called on parents, guardians, teachers, and community leaders to guide young people on responsible use of digital platforms.

“Let us help our young people avoid falling victim to the evils that come with this digital age by providing them with a moral compass and values that will enable them to live productive lives,” she emphasized.

Lira District Woman MP, Linda Agnes Auma, noted that digital tools can empower women economically if used effectively.

“For women to thrive in today’s economy, they must embrace digital transformation. We need to support them in accessing online markets, digital financial services, and modern farming techniques,” Auma said.

She encouraged young women to use technology for self-improvement and economic growth rather than just social validation.

Lira District LC5 Chairperson, Richard Okello Orik, urged the government to support rural women in accessing information and digital skills to boost their businesses and productivity.

“We must ensure that women in our communities have the digital knowledge and access needed to improve their livelihoods. If properly trained, they can use technology to market their products and gain financial independence,” Okello Orik said.