Parliament hosts women leaders for special session

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Women local leaders from across Uganda gathered at the Parliament of Uganda on Monday for the 2nd Women’s Parliament to discuss pressing issues affecting women and girls ahead of International Women’s Day.

The session focused on key challenges, including the need for safe spaces for women’s political participation, economic empowerment, and protection against harmful cultural practices such as early marriages, female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexual violence. Participants also highlighted the rising school dropout rates among girls due to social and economic barriers.

The Women’s Parliament was chaired by Faridah Kibowa, who was elected as Speaker, with Mackline Natukwasa as her deputy. Their election, held earlier in the day, was presided over by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige.

Addressing the gathering, Among emphasized the critical role of women leaders in advocating for the welfare and safety of women and girls. She urged local leaders to push for policies that protect girls from harmful practices and ensure their access to education and economic opportunities.

The Women’s Parliament serves as a forum for dialogue and policy recommendations to advance gender equality and women’s rights in Uganda.

Participants called for increased government support and stronger legal frameworks to address gender-based violence and promote women’s leadership in all sectors.

As Uganda prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day, the discussions from this session are expected to contribute to national efforts aimed at fostering gender equity and empowering women across the country.

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More photos from the 2nd Women's Parliament