Girl Guides urge parents, teachers to support girls’ empowerment

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The Uganda Girl Guides Association has called on parents and teachers to actively encourage girls and young women to join clubs and associations that have the potential to transform their lives.

This appeal was made during the closing ceremony of a five-day training for all regional Girl Guide leaders across Uganda. The training, held at Maxcedo Hotel in Kabuusu, Kampala, concluded on May 23 2025.

The association used the platform to emphasise the critical role of empowerment, training, and skills development in shaping confident and capable young women. (Photo by John Musenze)

The association used the occasion to emphasise the crucial role of empowerment, training, and skills development in shaping confident and capable young women.

The session, attended by 35 regional leaders, took place ahead of the association’s upcoming Annual General Meeting and elections, during which new leaders will be elected from among those trained.

Juliana Bezuidenhout, a member of the association since 1953, urged the newly trained leaders to pass on their knowledge and skills to younger members. She expressed concern that many recent members lack a foundational understanding of the Girl Guides’ values and history.

“For over 100 years, this association has championed girls’ empowerment, discipline, and skills training. I encourage every girl and woman to join the Girl Guides or similar associations,” Bezuidenhout said.

Juliana Bezuidenhout, who has been a member of the association since 1953, urged the newly trained leaders to pass on their knowledge and skills to younger members. (Photo by John Musenze)

“We train girls from an early age in values such as discipline and faithfulness—these are part of our ten core values.”

Although the organisation is primarily girl-led, Bezuidenhout added that they also advocate for the inclusion of boys, particularly through parental engagement. “We cannot change the world by leaving out the boys. Understand what these children need and support them—that’s all they ask for,” she said.

Suzan Namarome, the chief commissioner of the Uganda Girl Guides Association, noted that the organisation has worked tirelessly to combat teenage pregnancy and child marriages. It has also equipped girls with skills such as making reusable sanitary pads while training women in income-generating activities.

The Girl Guide Association leaders pose for a photo after training. (Photo by John Musenze)

“This week’s training was meant to prepare our regional leaders ahead of the general elections in August,” she said. “It has helped them reconnect with and better understand the ten core values of the association.”

“We will continue to change the lives of girls and women and welcome members regardless of their age or status,” she added.

With over 500,000 members nationwide, the association marked its centenary in 2023. During the celebrations, the President of Uganda commended the organisation for its transformative work in the lives of women and girls.

Deputy chief commissioner Josephine Nakangu praised the government for its continued support and encouraged members to actively recruit more girls and women into the movement.