The government and the Turkish Embassy have partnered to support women in Yumbe District, providing 100 bicycles and food aid to women empowerment groups.
The initiative, led by State Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, Justin Kasule Lumumba, and State Minister for Veterans Affairs Huda Oleru, aims to ease transportation for women striving to improve their livelihoods.
At a donation ceremony in Bunga, Makindye Division, Turkish Ambassador Mehmet Fatih reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to supporting women’s empowerment in Uganda.
“We are ready to work together to empower women and improve their socio-economic status,” he said.
The Turkish Embassy also pledged to build a female hospital in Yumbe District to improve healthcare services for women and girls.
Minister Oleru said the district was selected due to its large refugee population, many of whom struggle with unemployment.
“We want to support these women and help them improve their lives,” she noted.
Uganda and Turkey have been strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on trade, investment, education, health, and defense.
Turkey has been involved in several infrastructure projects, including the Hoima Sports Stadium and the Standard Gauge Railway from Tororo to Kampala.
Turkish companies are also constructing roads such as the Apac-Lira highway.
In aviation, Turkish Airlines operates daily flights from Entebbe, with plans to increase frequency. Uganda’s coffee exports to Turkey have surged from 2,000 bags in 2019 to 44,000 bags in 2023, underscoring growing economic ties.
As Yumbe’s women receive bicycles and food support, the initiative symbolises hope and empowerment. It highlights Uganda’s commitment to gender equality and aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
The partnership between Uganda and Turkey continues to drive meaningful development, promising further initiatives that uplift marginalised communities.