Uganda’s first digital museum to celebrate African feminist icons
According to Penelope Sanyu, the Chief Steward of Femme Forte Uganda, the idea for the museum was born out of a need to preserve and promote African feminist histories.
The digital museum is the brainchild of Femme Forte Uganda, an organization dedicated to promoting African feminist histories and amplifying women’s voices. (Courtesy phots)
Simon Okitela
Journalist @New Vision
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Uganda’s first digital museum, the Femme Forte Feminist Virtual Museum, has been launched to provide a unique platform to celebrate and honor African feminist icons.
The launch took place on Friday last week at Nsambya Gardens, graced by prominent women activists.
Unlike traditional archives, this museum refuses to be rigid. It is designed as a space that is fluid and organic, mirroring the very essence of feminist movements, bold, unapologetic, and deeply personal.
It’s uniqueness ushers you to walk through history, listen to the echoes of feminist struggles, and witness the resilience of those who dared to challenge the status quo.
The digital museum is the brainchild of Femme Forte Uganda, an organization dedicated to promoting African feminist histories and amplifying women’s voices.
According to Penelope Sanyu, the Chief Steward of Femme Forte Uganda, the idea for the museum was born out of a need to preserve and promote African feminist histories.
“The erasure of women’s stories from history is a significant concern. Our digital museum aims to address this issue by providing a platform that recognizes and celebrates the efforts of women across Africa.
Penelope Sanyu, the Chief Steward of Femme Forte Uganda making her remarks during the event.
Inspired by the shape of a woman’s body and the African heritage, its structure reflects the curves, layers, textures, and rhythms of our stories.
Here, knowledge is not confined to static exhibits; it unfolds dynamically, through multimedia experiences, oral histories, and interactive engagements,” Sanyu added.
The museum’s launch coincided with International Women’s Day celebrations, highlighting the importance of amplifying African women’s voices and stories.
The digital platform transcends geographical boundaries, allowing women from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and connect with one another.
The museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and oral histories, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors.
With its user-friendly interface and accessible design, the museum aims to reach a wider audience, promoting education, awareness, and empowerment.
One of the exhibits showcases the life and work of Prof. Sylvia Tamale, a renowned scholar and activist who has made significant contributions to African feminist thought.
Another exhibit highlights the achievements of Dr. Hilda Tadria, a movement builder and co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF).
The museum’s curation process is built on principles of inclusion, representation, and continuous engagement. The public is invited to contribute to the museum by sharing stories, nominating feminist icons, and supporting the platform’s sustainability.
As Uganda’s first digital museum, the Femme Forte Feminist Virtual Museum sets a new standard for cultural and historical preservation in the country.