President Yoweri Museveni has called on Catholic women across Africa to lead the charge in eliminating subsistence farming, describing it as a key driver of poverty and underdevelopment.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo at the Africa Regional Conference of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations held at the Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Museveni stressed the importance of transitioning to commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT as pathways to prosperity.
“When families move out of poverty through commercial farming and income-generating activities, it becomes easier to address other challenges faced by women,” the President said. “A child from a wealthy family will not drop out of school due to lack of fees. Eradicating poverty is the foundation for solving many of our problems.”
He commended Ugandan women for embracing the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) message on household wealth creation, but warned that 33% of households in Uganda are still stuck in subsistence farming.
“These families produce only for food, ignoring other essential needs like shelter and clothing that require money. Living outside the money economy is unsustainable and hinders progress,” Museveni said.
The President also reflected on the historical marginalization of women in Uganda, particularly before 1986, when they were excluded from economic opportunities, property ownership, and decision-making.
“Their labor was unrecognized in national statistics. They had no independent access to property or credit and were largely excluded from participating in national development,” he said.
He credited the NRM government for dismantling these discriminatory practices through policies such as affirmative action and the introduction of free education programs like Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE).
“Today, women are fully represented at all levels of governance. I thank them for using these opportunities to elevate their status in society,” he said, adding that educating women has proven essential to improving public health, nutrition, and family wellbeing.
President Museveni congratulated the Catholic women on reaching their Jubilee year and lauded their efforts toward social transformation.
“This is a profound milestone. I hope this conference provides a platform to reflect on your achievements and chart a path for the future,” he said.
The President urged participants to continue highlighting women’s contributions to development and their transformative role in families, communities, and nations.
The conference began with a Mass led by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, Chair of the Lay Apostolate Commission of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, who emphasized women’s vital role in environmental stewardship.
“Women are often the first victims of environmental degradation but also carry deep wisdom for living in harmony with nature. Continue promoting sustainable practices and environmental education,” he urged.
Monica Santamarina, President General of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisation, echoed the call for responsible stewardship, urging delegates to embody the conference theme: “Women, Custodians of Mother Earth.”
Assumpta Gidudu, President of the Uganda Catholic Women Apostolate, praised the government and faith-based collaborations that have empowered women through skills training and health education.
She encouraged women to renew their commitment to peace, unity, and service.
