TWINOMUHWEZI O
As Uganda prepares to celebrate Women’s Day tomorrow, March 8th, women leaders in the Kigezi region have expressed mixed reactions, commending the government’s efforts while also criticizing ongoing gender disparities.
Speaking to our reporter, former Rukungiri District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Betty Muzanira Bamukwasa, decried gender inequalities in public service. She noted that women remain underrepresented in key sectors such as education and healthcare.
Furthermore, Hon. Muzanira called on the government to unconditionally release political prisoners, particularly those who have been detained without trial. She pointed out that individuals like Dr. Kizza Besigye have suffered deteriorating health while in detention. She urged the government to release such prisoners as a symbolic gesture in honor of Women’s Day.
Meanwhile, Anna Nuwagaba Tumuramye, a commissioner from the Ministry of Lands and an aspiring candidate for the Rukungiri District Woman Representative seat, praised the government for initiatives that have improved the lives of women, particularly in elective politics. She also commended the government’s efforts in skilling programs, which have enabled women to become financially independent.
On the other hand, Jacklyn Jolly Tukamushaba, the National Unity Platform (NUP) Coordinator for Western Uganda, urged women to raise their voices against impunity. She expressed concern over cases where female security personnel have assaulted women exercising their right to free speech.
Tukamushaba also joined calls for the release of political prisoners, stating that there is little to celebrate when Uganda continues to face high maternal mortality rates, a lack of essential drugs in hospitals, and inefficiencies in government institutions.
