NELSON K
A powerful call for gender equality, love, and unity in families was made during the Women’s Day celebrations at Bugangari Playground on May 10th, following the district’s unique observance of the day. Although Women’s Day was officially celebrated on March 8th in Kyankwanzi district, the Rukungiri authorities chose to organize a special event on May 10th, aimed at accelerating action for gender equality.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality,” served as the backdrop for speeches that encouraged women to take action, shift away from traditional gender norms, and reject practices like early marriages. The central message emphasized creating a community free from gender-based violence.
The chairperson of the Rukungiri Women’s League Council, Mrs. Jolly Mashaija, who played a key role in organizing the event, spoke to the congregation about the persistent challenges faced by women in the district. She highlighted issues such as non-functional women’s councils at the village and district levels, continued teenage pregnancies, poverty, and low household income, which have kept many women in the district from progressing. Mrs. Mashaija called on the Rukungiri district local government to support women through training and seminars, which she believes are vital for breaking the cycle of backwardness that holds women back in families.
She urged women to prioritize the education of their children, work cooperatively with their husbands to eliminate domestic violence, and be vigilant in monitoring their daughters to prevent early pregnancies. Mrs. Mashaija also advocated for equal support in educating both boys and girls, acknowledging the concerning decline in boys’ enrollment in schools.
The aspiring Rukungiri District Woman Member of Parliament, Ms. Caledonia Bakironda, who also serves as the district’s Secretary of Education, Commerce, and Tourism, addressed journalists, sharing her thoughts on the importance of celebrating Women’s Day as a step toward promoting gender equality. She called on married couples to take full responsibility for their families, emphasizing the need for reconciliation to abolish domestic violence. Additionally, Ms. Bakironda urged both male and female education as essential tools for overcoming poverty within families.
Rukungiri District LC5 Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama welcomed the district authorities and civil servants for their excellent contributions to the district’s growth. He commended women for their outstanding performance, acknowledging them as some of the most trusted civil servants in the district. Under their leadership, Rukungiri secured 8th place out of 148 best-performing districts nationwide. Kyomukama expressed his appreciation for women’s hard work and commitment, vowing continued support for their well-being, including the provision of health facilities. He also expressed his gratitude to President Yoweri K. Museveni for his unwavering support of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
In his remarks, Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, also praised the importance of gender equality and unity, pledging to prioritize the improvement of health facilities. He assured the congregation that he would closely monitor the progress of health centers and their upgrades for the betterment of the district.
The guest of honor, Hon. Minister MJ General Gim Muhwezi Katugugu, representing the Rujumbura Constituency, expressed his gratitude and welcomed all women to celebrate their day. He emphasized the significance of gender equality and extended his thanks to President Museveni for his leadership in uplifting women’s rights. General Muhwezi also acknowledged the exceptional role that women have played in public service, with many women serving with integrity and trustworthiness. He applauded the collaborative efforts between Rukungiri district authorities, leaders, and civil servants, which have contributed to the growth and development of the district.
As the event concluded, the participants reiterated the need for continued advocacy for gender equality, unity in families, and a collective effort to eliminate domestic violence.
