The Vice President Jessica Alupo Epel has strongly condemned the act of beating women, describing it as an act of cowardice.
Speaking as the chief guest during the belated International Women’s Day celebrations held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Atoroma Primary School playground in Toroma Town Council, Katakwi District, Vice President Alupo emphasized the need to accelerate progress toward gender equality. The event was held under the theme: “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality.”
Alupo highlighted the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far in empowering women and the girl child across Uganda.
She commended the women of Katakwi and the greater Teso region for their dedication and contributions to national development, assuring them of the government’s continued support in fulfilling its promises.
“This message resonates deeply, reflecting the urgent need for continued progress in gender equality and women’s empowerment, particularly over the past 30 years,” Alupo stated.
In support of economic empowerment initiatives, Vice President Alupo handed over a tractor to the Katakwi Women Caucus, emphasizing the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) focus on commercial agriculture as a tool for job and wealth creation. She noted that effective utilization of the tractor would enhance agricultural productivity, improve household incomes, and strengthen food security in the region.
Also in attendance was State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Hon. Lilly Rose Akello, who called on women to uphold self-respect and refrain from political hatred. She attributed leadership to divine providence and thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for championing women’s emancipation. Akello also encouraged women to maintain respect within their families to promote harmony and peace.
Hon. Hellen Asamo, the State Minister for Disability Affairs, highlighted several impactful projects implemented by her ministry in Katakwi and across Uganda. She pointed to successful installations of gravity water systems and stressed that such large-scale infrastructure initiatives require significant government investment and cannot be handled by individuals alone.
Meanwhile, Hon. Derrick Orone urged the people of Katakwi to vote wisely, warning them against choosing candidates based on financial handouts. “Do not rush to change leadership. Change can bring its own challenges,” he cautioned.
Stella Apio, a local woman from Toroma County, expressed appreciation to the government for its ongoing efforts to promote gender equity. “We’ve been able to start our own businesses with the support of the government of Uganda, guided by His Excellency President Museveni and Vice President Jessica Alupo,” she said.
LCV Chairperson for Katakwi District, Geoffrey Omolo, also acknowledged the government’s support for women’s empowerment and encouraged continued participation in ongoing development programs.
