Swedish ambassador praises government for empowering women in leadership

9 March 2025, 11:01 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Following the Beijing Declaration 30 years ago, Uganda joined other countries yesterday in commemorating International Women’s Day. In Uganda, the event was held at Butemba College playgrounds in Bukwiri ward, Butemba town council, Kyankwanzi district.

Under the theme “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” President Yoweri Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady, Hon. Janet Museveni, served as the chief guest.

The event brought together various dignitaries, including ambassadors, ministers, members of parliament, commissioners, and army officers, among others, who gathered to witness the proceedings.

The Swedish Ambassador to Uganda, Her Excellency Maria Håkansson, in her remarks, expressed gratitude to women and commended the Ugandan government for providing opportunities for women to serve in leadership roles—an area where, she noted, some countries are still lagging. However, she emphasised that failing to prioritise gender equality would hinder national progress. “When women thrive, the nation prospers,” she stated.

Hajat Sharifa Kibowa, Chairperson of the National Women’s Council, thanked the government for various programmes that have empowered girls and women to become more self-reliant. “We thank you, Mr President, for educating girls and women through schools and other skilling hubs,” she said. Kibowa also raised concerns over an 8% budget cut, but in response, the President announced that 500 million shillings would be allocated to them.

“Despite the progress, some husbands are preventing their wives from participating in government programmes such as GROW,” Kibowa noted.

The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, provided an update on the government’s efforts to improve the well-being of women and girls. “We are committed to accelerating gender equality. We have strengthened leadership and partnerships, and women in leadership positions must deliver,” she stated.

The minister also urged the government to waive taxes on sanitary pads to make them more affordable. “Your Excellency, we request that taxes on sanitary pads be removed so that they become accessible to all,” she reiterated.

Vice President, Retired Major Jesca Alupo, highlighted the impact of government schools on national development, producing professionals such as engineers and doctors. “Women are benefiting from the education and healthcare systems. I urge all Ugandan women to support government programmes for the good of us all,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ms Nabulya Esteri, one of the participants, informed the President that although government programmes are beneficial, many women across the country have not been able to access them due to high fees and other restrictive qualifications imposed by those in charge.

The Chief Administrative Officer of Kyankwanzi District, Mr Bukenya Mark, admitted that some groups had been charging residents money to access the programmes but assured the President that the matter was being addressed. The Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Ankunda Sharon, confirmed that she was aware of the issue and that steps were being taken to resolve it.

President Museveni emphasised that for women to prosper, they must embrace government programmes. The United Nations (UN) Country Coordinator, on behalf of the UN family, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Uganda.

A total of 46 people were awarded medals, including the Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Minister for East African Community Affairs.