International Women’s Day: Meet 8 inspirational women in Agago shaping the future

8 March 2025, 4:33 PM

By Freeman Canogura

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, Radio Wang Ooh highlights eight remarkable women from Agago district who are breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.

These trailblazers, drawn from government, advocacy, business, education, and public service, have made significant contributions to their communities.

8. Sidonia Akidi: Entrepreneur

A local fish and clothing vendor since 2003, Akidi Sidonia defied the odds after her husband left her with four children. Through hard work, she managed to educate three of her children and built rental properties, securing financial stability while continuing her business. We celebrate her resilience.

7. Paska Adong: Gender and Human Rights Advocate

As the Senior Community Development Officer in charge of Gender at Agago District Local Government, Paska Adong has dedicated her career to advocating for the rights of women and girls. She actively engages in grassroots initiatives, lobbies for resources, and ensures that women benefit from government programmes such as UWEP, Youth Livelihood Projects, and PDM. Known for her humility and approachability, she remains a trusted leader in the community.

6. Benna Acuma Oyaro: Politician

Hon. Benna Acuma Oyaro represents Adilang town council, Adilang subcounty, and Laperebong subcounty in the District Council. As the Secretary for Health, she has played a key role in monitoring health services and ensuring accountability in local health centres. She has also been instrumental in advocating for peace in Agago.

5. Lilly Akulu: Educator & Mentor

Currently the headteacher of Moodege Primary School, Lilly Akulu has dedicated years to shaping young minds in Agago. She has led several schools, including Adilang Kulaka, Luzira, Acuru, Ongalo, Orina, and Biwang. Beyond teaching, she has mentored and supported many children, particularly young girls, inspiring them to pursue education and leadership.

4. Dr. Samantha Grace Angeyo: Health Professional

As the in-charge of Patongo Health Centre IV, Dr Angeyo has transformed healthcare in Agago. Despite her age, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing the facility and ensuring medical services reach those in need. In 2024, when Radio Wang Ooh FM fans were involved in an accident after a friendly football match in Adilang, she played a crucial role in providing emergency care, saving lives.

3. Florence Adong: Mental Health Advocate

As Programme Manager for Basic Needs UK in Uganda (BNUU), Florence Adong has been at the forefront of mental health advocacy in Northern Uganda. With over a decade of experience in NGOs, she has led initiatives that have improved the lives of more than 6,500 community members, including 3,856 people living with mental health conditions. Her work has helped reduce stigma and promote mental health awareness in Agago.

2. Beatrice Akello Akori: Politician

Hon. Beatrice Akello Akori serves as the Woman MP for Agago district and the Minister of State for Economic Monitoring in Uganda. A former Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Apac district, she played a key role in leading the district’s COVID-19 response in 2020. Her commitment to development has earned her widespread support, with many Agago residents calling for her to return to Parliament unopposed in 2026.

1. Acoko Julian: Gender Activist

As the Executive Director of NUWOSO, Acoko Julian is a tireless advocate for the rights of women, girls, and children in the Acholi sub-region. Through her work, she continues to push for policies and programmes that empower women and protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.