By Emmanuel Otekat Kuluo
The Parliament of Uganda has successfully held its second Women’s Parliament, bringing together over 500 women leaders from across the country.
Themed “Consolidating Women’s Social and Economic Transformation in Uganda,” the event aimed at discussing and addressing critical issues affecting women at various levels of society.
The Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, emphasized the importance of empowering women at the grassroots level.
She urged women leaders to focus their deliberations on issues that directly impact their communities, particularly in areas of economic independence, leadership, and gender equality.
Among also reiterated Parliament’s commitment to ensuring that women’s issues remain a priority in Uganda’s legislative agenda.
She assured women leaders that policies promoting gender equality and economic opportunities for women would be strengthened.
During the session, Hajjati Faridah Kibowa was elected as the Speaker of the 2nd Women’s Parliament, while Hon. Mackline Natukwasa was elected as the Deputy Speaker.
Their election was a demonstration of women’s ability to take up leadership roles and influence decision-making processes in the country.
Hon. Mariam Naigaga, the Woman Member of Parliament for Namutumba District passionately encouraged fellow women leaders to support and uplift each other, especially those who seek higher political positions.
According to Naigaga, women’s solidarity in leadership creates more opportunities for others to rise and strengthens their collective voice in decision-making platforms.
“We need to support one another in leadership because when one of us rises, we all gain a stronger voice. Women must break barriers and occupy spaces that have long been dominated by men,” she stated.
Naigaga, who is eyeing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) membership as the National Vice Chairperson for the Eastern Region, is already mobilizing support to challenge the incumbent, Capt. Mike Mukula.
Her bid for the position is driven by her commitment to fighting for the rights and welfare of women in Uganda.
In her campaign strategy, Naigaga is engaging in calendestine mobilization to garner support from women leaders and all NRM delegates.
She believes that her presence in the CEC will amplify the voices of women and bring more attention to their issues at the highest decision-making levels.
The Women’s Parliament was marked by discussions on economic empowerment, gender-based violence, political inclusion, and access to financial resources for women entrepreneurs. Many participants shared success stories and challenges, reinforcing the need for continuous advocacy and government intervention in supporting women’s development initiatives.
As the event concluded, there was a shared sense of unity among women leaders, with renewed energy to push for policies and programs that benefit women across Uganda.
The Women’s Parliament has become a crucial platform for dialogue, inspiring women to take charge of their destinies and demand equal opportunities in leadership and economic development.
