Vice President Jessica Alupo has lauded President Yoweri Museveni for appointing 36 female ministers in his cabinet and his continued willingness to ensure women empowerment in Uganda.
“We would in a special way like to celebrate His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for exercising the true women’s empowerment spirit by appointing up to 36 Female Ministers in strategic positions on the current Cabinet,” she said.
She added: “We will reciprocate this goodwill by ensuring that we perform beyond expectations.”
Alupo was speaking during the commemoration of the Pan African Women’s Day 2021 at President’s Auditorium in Kampala.
She said the Government has made considerable progress in incorporating the principles and provisions of global and regional commitments on women’s human rights in national legal and policy frameworks.
Specific interventions, according to her include investing in the education of the girl child, participation of women in leadership and decision-making at all levels, improving livelihoods and economic empowerment among others.
“On this note, we celebrate and recognize all the Women of Uganda who have championed and inked a mark on women’s empowerment in Uganda,” said Alupo.
The Pan African Women’s Organisation has been recognised as a Specialized Agency of the African Union and has played a key role in consolidating Pan-Africanism. Pan-Africanism is a worldwide movement that aims to encourage and strengthen bonds of solidarity and Unity among all indigenous and diaspora ethnic groups of African descent.
“As we commemorate the Day, we recognize the progress the African Continent has registered. In particular, the Adoption of Instruments, Frameworks and Programmes which are guiding development in Africa including promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.”
Existing challenges facing women in Africa
The Vice President also said women across Africa are experiencing high levels of violence, poverty and conflicts in several countries.
“We call for action towards accelerating progress towards gender equality and women’s empowerment, reducing poverty and enhancing peace and security in Africa.”