Derrick A
The Minister of Security, Honorable Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi, stressed the importance of men respecting and working alongside their wives to address the escalating cases of domestic violence in Rukungiri district. He made these remarks during the belated Rukungiri district Woman’s Day celebration held at Rwamagaya Primary School playground in Ruhinda Sub-county. The event, celebrated under the national theme “Accelerating Gender Equality through Women’s Empowerment,” highlighted the crucial role of collaboration between spouses in curbing domestic violence, which has led to the dissolution of numerous families.
Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi emphasized that families plagued by domestic violence struggle to progress in terms of development. He urged men to cherish their wives and fulfill their responsibilities while also advocating for the protection of girls’ rights.
Rukungiri District Woman MP, Midius Kaharata, encouraged women to engage in government programs like the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Program (UWEP) to kick-start income-generating activities. She supports various groups across all sub-counties, facilitating initiatives such as soap making and weaving, to empower women to become financially independent instead of solely relying on their husbands’ income.
Jolly Masheija, the Chairperson of Rukungiri Women’s Council, expressed gratitude to the government for its continuous support in organizing such events and implementing programs aimed at enhancing the living standards of women. Despite the successful utilization of UWEP funds by women in Rukungiri, Masheija noted an unfortunate rise in domestic violence cases, which has affected some women’s ability to repay their loans.
Helen Kabajugu, the Chairperson of Ruhinda Sub-county, commended the government for empowering women and enabling their participation in political leadership roles. However, she highlighted the urgent need for attention to certain neglected areas within the sub-county, such as Nyarwimuka parish, which lacks adequate service delivery.
The event was graced by several Members of Parliament, including Honorable Patience Kishaba Nkunda, Woman MP for Kanungu district; Honorable Jennifer Kyomuhendo Mbabazi, Woman MP for Kagadi district; Honorable Agasha Juliet Bashisha of Mitooma district; and Honorable Betty Muzanira, former Woman MP of Rukungiri district. Also in attendance were Canon Benson Turamye, the Executive Director of PPDA, and Mary Edith Mbabazi, the Chief Magistrate of Rukungiri district, among others. Numerous schools and non-governmental organizations actively participated in the celebrations.
