President Museveni Calls for Inclusive Prosperity to Tackle Challenges Facing Women

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandans to strive for inclusive prosperity to address challenges facing women.

“We are making progress, but we need to accelerate. Our goal is prosperity for all. With prosperity, we can eliminate the challenges confronting women, such as the practice of bride price,” President Museveni emphasized.

The President made these remarks today while officiating at the International Women’s Day 2024 Celebrations at Boma Grounds, Katakwi District. The event was held under the theme: “Accelerating Gender Equality Through Women’s Economic Empowerment.”

President Museveni highlighted the potential for many families to achieve wealth through utilizing their land for commercial agriculture. He stressed the importance of “ekibaaro” (calculation) in this endeavor.

Furthermore, the President underscored the significance of mass education and integrating adults into the economy as vital for socio-economic transformation. He expressed concern over challenges hindering free education in government schools and pledged to address this issue.

Regarding women’s emancipation, President Museveni urged the women’s movement to advocate for free education in government schools to empower the girl child.

He emphasized the importance of diversifying livelihoods beyond subsistence farming, encouraging involvement in commercial agriculture, artisanry, industries, services, and ICT to empower both women and men.

President Museveni cited success stories of socio-economic transformation in various regions, attributing them to initiatives like commercialization of the dairy sector and the oil palm project.

Additionally, he pledged government support for expanding the fruit factory in Soroti to boost the citrus market in Teso. He encouraged diversification into fish and dairy farming, poultry, and pig rearing.

President Museveni commended Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo for her leadership in promoting economic development in Teso and empowering the girl child.

He highlighted the importance of women’s contributions to national stability and praised Uganda’s progress in appointing women to key leadership positions.

President Museveni signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) aimed at capacity building and supporting women entrepreneurs under the GROW project, with funds allocated to women in business across four districts.

At the event, 53 exemplary Ugandans were honored for their contributions to society, including H.E Jessica Alupo and Mr. Amos Mukisa, who were recognized for their bravery in capturing assailants.

Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo commended President Museveni for his leadership and reiterated the commitment of women to work with the government for Uganda’s social and economic transformation.

Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, lauded the NRM government’s affirmative action and programs promoting women’s empowerment.

Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, appreciated President Museveni’s commitment to women’s socio-economic advancement.

UN Resident Coordinator to Uganda, Ms. Susan Namondo Ngongi, applauded Uganda’s progress in promoting gender equality and pledged continued support from the UN.

Ambassador of Austria to Uganda, H.E Katja Yvonne Kerschbaumer, commended President Museveni’s efforts in promoting gender equality while acknowledging persisting challenges.

National Women’s Council-Uganda Chairperson, Hajjat Faridah Kibowa, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for championing women’s empowerment and highlighted the council’s role in producing skilled women leaders.

The function was attended by various dignitaries, including the Chief Justice, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers, Members of Parliament, diplomatic representatives, religious and traditional leaders.