President Yoweri Museveni has re-echoed the need for Women’s economic empowerment as a fundamental aspect of strengthening their rights and enabling them to have control over their lives.
The president was this afternoon speaking during the International Women’s Day Celebrations held at Kololo ceremonial grounds in Kampala.
He said empowering women economically entails supporting them to access economic resources and opportunities including jobs, financial services, productive assets, basic education, skills development and market information.
Earlier, various women leaders used the event to demand that the government does more to ensure gender equality by 2030.
The UN Women Uganda Country Representative Hodan Addou said the day should be used to emphasize the need for increased participation of women as a prerequisite for successful implementation of Agenda 2030.
She says once equality is achieved, poverty and violence against women and girls will be a thing of the past.
Meanwhile, as part of celebrations, government has recognized a number of women for their outstanding contribution, loyalty and service to the nation.
According to the Chairman Awards Committee Gen Elly Tumwine, 399 medals have been given out and those recognized include the late Prof Rose Mboowa who composed the Uganda Women’s Anthem.
The others are the late Joan Kagezi, Rhoda Tumusiime, Winnie Lawoko, Florence Okot, Dr. Grace Nambatya, local artists Mariam Ndagire & Annette Nandujja as well as rally champion Susan Muwonge.
Story By Damali Mukhaye
