Inmates and staff at Luzira Women’s Prison joined the rest of the world to celebrate International Women’s Day with a vibrant event filled with unity, reflection, and hope.
The colorful celebration brought together prison staff, inmates, civil society organizations, and religious groups in a moment that emphasized dignity, transformation, and solidarity.
The day featured a series of engaging activities, including sports competitions, music, dance, and drama performances, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere within the prison.
Participants described the celebration as a moment of love, peace, and harmony as inmates showcased their talents and creativity through various performances and activities.
A key highlight of the event was an exhibition of products made by inmates through vocational training programs. The display reflected practical skills inmates are developing in areas such as tailoring and crafts, skills aimed at preparing them for productive lives after prison.
Speaking during the celebrations, Senior Rehabilitation and Reintegration Officer Sam Kibirige, who represented the Kampala Extra Regional Commander as the Chief Guest, encouraged inmates to remain hopeful and continue participating in programs that support their rehabilitation.
“Remain hopeful and continue taking part in rehabilitation programs that help transform your lives,” Sam Kibirige said.
In her remarks, Superintendent of Prisons and Officer in Charge of Luzira Women’s Prison Esther Lamunu thanked inmates, staff, and partners for making the event successful, noting that such celebrations strengthen unity and provide encouragement to the women in custody.
The Programs Manager at Justice Defenders, Deo Patience Chandia, also commended the inmates for their commitment to learning and self-improvement through education and vocational training.
Several stakeholders from civil society and faith-based organizations attended the celebration and continue to support rehabilitation initiatives within the prison.
These included Justice Defenders, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Catholic Church, Franciscan Ministries, and Women in Action, among others.
The celebration concluded with renewed hope among inmates and staff, reinforcing the importance of support, skills development, and unity in helping incarcerated women rebuild their lives.