Summary:
Bishop Luwalira emphasized that gender justice aligns with Christian teachings, citing Genesis 1:27, which affirms that all people are created in God’s image.
KAMPALA: The Church of Uganda, in partnership with Dan Church Aid (DCA), joined the global celebration of International Women’s Day on Wednesday with an event titled “Men Leading the Way in the Kitchen” at the Provincial Secretariat in Namirembe.
This initiative saw men take the lead in preparing and serving meals—symbolizing a bold step toward breaking societal stereotypes that define rigid gender roles in homes and communities.
The event’s Chief Guest was the retired Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira, who represented the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu. He was accompanied by his wife, Maama Faith Luwalira.
Bishop Luwalira emphasized that gender justice aligns with Christian teachings, citing Genesis 1:27, which affirms that all people are created in God’s image.
“The Word of God teaches us that we are all created in His image equal in His eyes and bound by His love. The call for equity and justice is a Christian mandate that resonates deeply with our faith. It is a call to see each other as God sees us, to celebrate our unique strengths, and to work hand-in-hand in fulfilling His purpose for our lives,” he said.
He reiterated the Church’s commitment to addressing gender injustices, fostering a culture of respect and empowerment for women and girls, and challenging harmful norms.
“As religious leaders, we must confront these injustices head-on and work tirelessly to dismantle the systems that perpetuate them. We are called to champion gender equality, challenge harmful stereotypes, and create environments where women are valued and empowered to thrive,” he added.
On behalf of the Church of Uganda, Bishop Luwalira pledged to use faith spaces to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV). This commitment includes:
- Denouncing the culture of silence around GBV.
- Encouraging survivors to report cases and seek support.
- Providing counseling and assistance through the Church’s structures.
- Creating safe spaces for both men and women.
Additionally, the Church vowed to mentor boys from an early age to respect and value girls as equals while leveraging social and mainstream media to advocate for women’s rights and empowerment.
Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, praised the men who participated in domestic work, describing their involvement as a powerful statement against gender stereotypes.
“The act of men stepping into the kitchen may seem simple, but its implications are profound. It challenges the notion that caregiving and domestic responsibilities belong solely to women. By embracing these roles, men demonstrate love and respect for their families while setting a powerful example for the next generation,” he said.
Ms. Josephine Ninsiima, Acting Director of Household and Community Transformation, urged government agencies, NGOs, and civil society organizations to collaborate with the Church in advancing gender justice through economic empowerment programs.
“The Church’s well-organized structure reaches the grassroots, making it an essential partner in addressing gender-related challenges. I urge those in positions of authority including government officials and parliamentarians to initiate, sponsor, and support laws addressing gender-based violence, discrimination, and economic inequality. These legal frameworks will protect the rights of women and girls, advance gender justice, and build a more equitable society,” she said.
Augustine Enyipu, Head of Programs at Dan Church Aid, who represented the Country Director, commended the Church’s role in advocating for gender and social justice.
“This initiative reflects our shared responsibility to create supportive environments where every member of the family can thrive. By fostering partnerships and promoting gender justice, we can build a society where everyone is valued and empowered,” he noted.
Mrs. Carolyn Kikoyo, Mothers’ Union President of the Diocese of Kampala, highlighted the vital contributions of women throughout history and the challenges they continue to face.
“Throughout history, women have played pivotal roles in nurturing families, fostering compassion, and promoting justice. Yet, despite their immense talents and capabilities, they still encounter discrimination, violence, and unequal opportunities that hinder their full potential,” she said.
She encouraged both men and women to work together in the fight for gender justice.
“To the men here today, I commend you for your courage and leadership. To the women, I honor your resilience and strength. And to all of us, I urge that we continue to listen, learn, and take action. Let us accelerate efforts to create a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear, where their voices are heard, and where their potential is fully realized.”
