Kabanda urges women on embracing value-based politics

KAMPALA - Kampala affairs minister Hajat Minsa Kabanda has urged women to embrace value-based leadership.

Speaking during the My Great Price Women’s Conference organised by Phaneroo Ministries International on Saturday at Phaneroo Grounds, Naguru in Kampala city, Kabanda delivered a passionate address that cut across faith, politics and the role of women in national transformation.

“I stand before you not only as a public servant but also as a woman, a mother and a believer in values,” she said. 

“Though I am Muslim by faith, I am deeply moved by the unity and strength that gatherings like this reflect.”

Kabanda emphasised that the noble role of women is recognised across all religions. In Islam, she said, “paradise is at the feet of mothers.” Quoting Proverbs 31, she noted that “a virtuous woman’s price is far above rubies.”

“These are not just poetic phrases,” she said. “They are a reminder that true substance is not found in possessions or positions, but in character, courage, faith, and service.”

The minister raised a key question about the future of female leadership in Uganda.

“As we go into elective politics, which has already begun, do we have women of substance among us standing for positions? Or have we left it to the ‘men and women of the world’?” she asked.

Kabanda called for unity among women across generations, faiths, and sectors, urging them to raise daughters and sons who understand that true value comes from God and is shaped by purpose, not popularity.

“Let us support one another. Let us shape children who know that value is not given by the world but by God,” she concluded. “And I thank Phaneroo for fostering dialogue that speaks to the soul of society.”

Apostle Grace Lubega, the vision-bearer of Phaneroo Ministries International, set the tone for the day with a powerful sermon drawn from Numbers 27, emphasising the role of women in shifting generational patterns.

He cited the boldness of the daughters of Zelophehad who demanded their father’s inheritance and caused God to change a patriarchal law. “This is the season to go places that intimidate normal women,” he declared.

“There are hidden inheritances waiting for bold women who understand that in Christ there is neither male nor female. The Holy Spirit works the same in both.” Lubega urged women to believe for extraordinary things, reminding them that daughters, just like sons, can shape the destiny of entire households and nations.

Dr Cindy Trimm, an international speaker and minister, brought global perspective, citing Uganda’s Queen of Katwestory as an example of global relevance emerging from unexpected places.

“You may see Katwe as a slum, but God saw it as a womb,” she said. “Disney told that girl’s story. Let the world tell yours, too.”

Ntokozo Mbambo, the celebrated South African gospel singer, led the congregation in deep worship. Her performances of Makabongwe, Yi Naye, and Jehovah Is Your Name brought women to tears and on their knees in reverence. Local artists including Becky Worship, Rachel K, and Zabuuli also lifted the crowd in praise.