Summary:
President Museveni recalled how, even before 1986, he recruited women into FRONASA, only for them to be dismissed due to resistance from other political groups.
KYANKWANZI: President Yoweri Museveni has reiterated that women’s empowerment has been a key strategic priority of his administration since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power.
Speaking at the International Women’s Day celebrations in Bukwiri village, Kyankwanzi district, under the theme “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” on Saturday, President Museveni reflected on his early efforts to involve women in national development.
He recalled how, even before 1986, he recruited women into FRONASA, only for them to be dismissed due to resistance from other political groups.
However, after assuming leadership, the NRM reintegrated women into the army and other sectors, ensuring equal opportunities for their participation in national progress.
His remarks were prompted by Sweden’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Maria Håkansson, who commended Uganda’s strides in gender equality, noting that the country has surpassed many European nations in women’s political representation.
“I’m glad the Ambassador of Sweden set the record straight by saying Uganda has made more progress in some areas than many European countries,” Museveni said.
The President emphasized that universal education is a fundamental tool for women’s empowerment. He cited the introduction of Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) in 1997 as transformative policies.
However, he expressed concern that some local officials continue to charge fees, limiting access to free education.
To address this, Museveni called for strict enforcement of free government education to ensure girls complete their studies without financial obstacles.
On economic empowerment, the President urged women to take advantage of government initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the Four-Acre Model to transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture.
Addressing environmental concerns, Museveni warned against deforestation and wetland encroachment, linking environmental degradation to prolonged dry seasons affecting Uganda and Africa.
Vice President H.E. Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo commended President Museveni for championing women’s emancipation, highlighting Uganda’s leadership in increasing women’s representation in politics, business, and security forces.
She noted that more Ugandan women are now entering fields traditionally dominated by men, such as aviation, engineering, and the military.
Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, attributed Uganda’s progress to the NRM’s revolutionary ideology, which recognized women’s potential long before international frameworks like the Beijing Declaration.
Uganda’s success in gender equality is no accident—it stems from deliberate policies and strategic leadership. The journey continues as the government and development partners work to eliminate barriers preventing women from fully participating in national development.
