Women in Rukungiri Call for More Gender Equality as Uganda Celebrates International Women’s Day

Rukungiri: As Uganda joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, a section of women in Rukungiri District have highlighted both the progress and challenges in achieving gender equality. 

Speaking to our news reporter, who visited various district authorities, especially women working at the Rukungiri District offices on March 7, the Rukungiri Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) Kellen Kagisha noted that Uganda has made significant strides in promoting gender equality, with women playing a crucial role in national development. 

She emphasized that women have built strong communities, inspired future generations, and taken up leadership roles that were once dominated by men. 

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Adding to this, Rukungiri District Clerk to Council, Tracy Asiimwe, stated that Women’s Day has empowered women by providing a platform to raise their concerns, particularly those in leadership. She encouraged women to embrace the day, as it offers an opportunity to pursue their dreams.

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Rukungiri District Vice Chairperson, Santrinah Nahwera, urged the public to ensure inclusivity in development, stressing that Women’s Day serves to celebrate women’s achievements and recognize those who have paved the way for future generations. 

She pointed out that despite progress, women still face challenges such as societal expectations to conform to traditional gender roles, exclusion from decision-making and limited employment opportunities. She noted that only 33.1% of women are employed, compared to 43.8% of men, despite the presence of many intelligent and capable women. 

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Rukungiri District Senior Probation Officer, Jeniffer Tumusiimire, said Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women’s achievements and reflect on the challenges they face. She cited low income levels and gender-based violence as major barriers to women’s efforts to improve their families’ livelihoods. 

International Women’s Day is observed annually to highlight issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against gender-based violence. In Uganda, the national celebration will be held today in Kyankwanzi District.