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A fair and just inclusive society for all will require Gender indiscrimination and offering opportunities for meaningful participation in decision-making processes. 

However, the greatest challenge is the exclusion and oppression of women actors in democratic processes curtaining their full participation.

Inclusive Democracy is the building block for a fair and just society but the ability to safeguard is a cross-gender issue. 

In Uganda, when democracy was undermined in the 1980 elections, it sparked the NRA liberation war between 1980 to 1986, many women lost their husbands which eventually turned them into widows with the sole burden of taking care of orphans.

To date, in many countries, Women and girls continue to be under threat, especially in war zones where they face rape, defilement, and food insecurity as a result of abuse of democracy.

Due to backsliding democracy, many girls in war zones have ended up missing quality education which has deterred their full potential. 

It’s now more evident, particularly in war-torn areas that women are the most affected by the abuse of democracy. 

However, women and girls have gained courage over decades to confront situations under which Democracy is being threatened. 

Women are in headlines demanding for respect gender rights, human rights for all, and fundamental freedoms in the face of oppression. 

Across the world, girls and women are regarded as mere participants and beneficiaries instead of a key population in decision-making processes, often used as cheerleaders and entertainers but the UN AIDS 10-10-10 targets remind our leaders especially the dominant male gender and all other stakeholders that women and girls have a cardinal duty in shaping their future.

In Uganda, we have at least advanced the affirmative action plan consequentially given birth to a frontline of Vice President, Speaker of Parliament, Inspectorate of government, and Prime Minister in an almost 80 percent female cabinet at the same time. 

Women and girls are on the frontline for safeguarding inclusive democracy as elaborated; 

Women and Girls Influencing Diverse Perspectives 

Women and girls are bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, enriching the democratic dialogue and promoting inclusivity;

Honorable women legislators are shaking parliamentary committees and plenary registering a good track record on Hansard.

Women and Girls Stirring Inclusivity Advocacy 

Women and girls are at the forefront of advocating for more inclusive policies, addressing issues related to gender, race, and other forms of discrimination;

For example, Female musicians now use Music and art to advocate for gender-based violence, HIV/AIDs prevention, and human rights. 

Women leading Tech-Savvy Engagement 

Women and girls are harnessing technology to engage with a broader and more diverse audience, making politics and civic participation more accessible to all;

For example, Nalwoga Regina Priscilla (not real name) founder of Data for Governance Alliance from Zimbabwe aged 28 years launched a manual and access to the court during Covid-19 Scorecard.

Women and Girls Leading Social Justice Activism

Women and girls are passionate about social justice causes and work towards reducing inequalities, ensuring that democratic systems benefit everyone;

For example, Nambasa Shamim age 23 a Makerere University medical graduate is leading the peaceful demonstrations against unfair and delayed payments of medical interns.

Women and Girls Stirring Environmental Stewardship

Women activists often lead the charge in addressing environmental concerns, pushing for sustainable and inclusive policies;

Nakabuye Hilda Flavia aged 25 and Nakate Vanessa aged 27years respectively have been addressing the United Nations cooperation of parties for climate change in Glasgow, Cairo the duo have carried out peaceful demonstrations against deforestation, plastics improper disposal, and environmental destruction fossil fuel projects proposing to divest and investment in renewal energy.

Women and Girls Inventing Innovative Solutions

Women and girls' fresh perspectives and innovative thinking are leading in creative solutions to complex societal challenges, contributing to sustainable solutions for addressing healthcare disparities and healthcare systems;

For instance, a younger female called Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa is the 27-year-old Founder and Executive Director of Chil Artificial Intelligence Lab, which is using technology to change the lives of women in Uganda, through early cancer detection

Women and Girls Shaping Interconnected Global View

Women and girls have a global outlook, which is shaping international cooperation and diplomacy, promoting inclusive democracy on a global scale; for example, Miss. Akid Adile Winfred is the Vice President of Generation Democracy a global institution providing capacity-building programs to younger all over the world. 

Women and Girls Stirring Community Engagement 

Women and girls are actively engaged with their local communities, working to create spaces where all voices are heard and respected;

For example, Namirembe Blessious aged 24 started a community-based organization called Assure Uganda training younger people in communities how to use mobile phone Apps as tools for advancing their voices and concerns.

Women at the front of political representation

Women and girls are running for office or supporting candidates who champion inclusivity can lead to more diverse and representative governments.

For instance, many in the National Youth Council (NYC) presented themselves to the organization from a well-paying job of three Million shillings at the National Identification Registration Authority.

Women and girls spearheading Education and Awareness

Women and girls are working hard to educate themselves and others about the importance of inclusivity and the role it plays in strengthening democracy;

For example, Culton Scovia Nakamya and Midred Tuhaise are hosting Twitter spaces, writing perspective and opinion articles in print media about climate action, leadership, and accountable governance.

In essence, women and girl’s dedication to inclusivity and their willingness to challenge the status quo are pivotal in safeguarding and advancing inclusive democracy, making it more reflective of the needs and aspirations of diverse populations.

Governments, civil societies, learning centers, and media houses should consider supporting girls and women with massive investments in education, skills-building, and lifelong learning.

Political parties and electoral bodies should provide civic spaces for meaningful participation of women and girls in decision-making processes at every level.

Involving women and girls in democratic processes will minimize future calamities like coups, tensions, and turmoil similar to those in West African countries and other parts of the World.

Women and girls provided with safe civic spaces have the potential to shape their future with respect for human rights and, the rule of law as fundamental to democracy.

Research by the White House in the United States shows that the Status of women and the stability of nations are inextricably linked and that societies that foster gender discrimination and allow oppressive gender norms to flourish are likely to be unstable. 

Therefore governments should not only stop commemorating Women’s Day but must intensively work towards accelerating girls' and women's civic and political dispensation spaces at all times. 

Subsequently, women and girls should rise in overwhelming numbers to gain interest in politics because it matters so much, 

My disappointment normally comes when I hear younger women stating “Am not a politician” Politics is for men, hullo excuse me, politics informs each and everything in our society, therefore stand up, show up, and participate in all decision-making processes. 

Robert Kigongo is a sustainable development analyst