NGOs advocate for women in leadership

15 April 2025, 07:45

By Ali lukomo

Non-governmental organisations in Buyende district are making a serious push to advocate for girls and women to take leadership roles in sensitive positions, both political and otherwise. This was revealed at a one-day review workshop organised by the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) under the SHARE project, held at Rumours Guest House in Buyende town council, Buyende district. Their aim is to ensure that no woman is left behind, regardless of their status.

During the meeting with political leaders, journalists, religious leaders, cultural representatives, and people with disabilities, the project coordinator, Mr Onuango Henry, appealed to the stakeholders to ensure the message reaches the intended community through the Community of Practice, a body assigned to carry out the advocacy and sensitisation.

In his opening remarks, the Buyende District Head, Mr Kanaku Michael, shared that he had long championed women’s leadership, ensuring women enjoyed a significant share of leadership roles during his tenure. His vice-chairperson and the secretary for production and finance are both women. He urged the Community of Practice to continue disseminating information about women’s emancipation and advocate for them to be placed in leadership roles.

Mr kanaku Micheal.

Madam Immaculate Nabwiire from WaterAid said they are working closely with the SHARE project and FAWE Uganda to ensure the provision of clean water and promote hygiene across communities, including hospitals and schools. They aim to help girls stay safe so that they can become responsible citizens and be well-positioned for leadership roles if they choose to pursue them.

One of the participants, a headteacher from St James Kagulu Senior Secondary School, shared that they are encouraging girls to aspire to roles that may have seemed impossible for them in the past. For example, they currently have a female head prefect, and girls are being encouraged to pursue Advanced Levels, which was not the case in previous years.

While many women have risen to significant positions in government, it remains apparent that at the grassroots level, there is still hesitancy among women to take on leadership roles.

Immaculate Nabwiire.