As we gather to celebrate International Women’s Day in Uganda, it is paramount to reflect on the strides we have made toward gender equality and the work that remains to be done. The theme of this year’s celebration resonates deeply with the core values of the National Resistance Movement (NRM): empowering women through healthcare, entrepreneurship, and education. As I step into the role of the 1st National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, I am committed to ensuring that these pillars are not just ideals we speak about but realities that transform lives and uplift our nation.
Healthcare: The Foundation of Empowerment
The importance of healthcare in empowering women cannot be overstated. Health is a fundamental human right and a critical enabler for women’s participation in all spheres of life. In Uganda, women face unique health challenges, from maternal health complications to the prevalence of diseases that disproportionately affect them. As we celebrate women today, we must reaffirm our commitment to improving healthcare access for women, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Investing in women’s health is not merely a moral obligation; it is an economic imperative. Healthy women contribute to a healthy workforce, and when women are healthy, families thrive, communities prosper, and nations flourish. Therefore, I urge the government and relevant stakeholders to prioritize maternal health services, reproductive health education, and mental health support. By ensuring that women have access to quality healthcare, we are laying the groundwork for a more productive and equitable society.
Entrepreneurship: A Pathway to Independence
In the realm of entrepreneurship, women are often the backbone of their families and communities. However, they face significant barriers, including limited access to capital, training, and networks. As we celebrate women today, it is crucial to recognize and support the entrepreneurial spirit of women in Uganda. By providing women with the necessary resources and training, we can empower them to start and grow their businesses, thereby fostering economic independence.
The NRM is committed to creating an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs. This includes advocating for policies that promote access to finance, mentorship programs, and skills training tailored for women. When women succeed in business, they not only uplift themselves but also create job opportunities for others, contributing to the overall economic development of our nation. Supporting women entrepreneurs is not just about individual success; it is about creating a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.
Education: The Key to National Progress
The adage “When you educate a woman, you educate a nation” encapsulates the transformative power of education. Education is a fundamental right and a critical driver of social and economic development. Despite the progress we have made in increasing access to education for girls in Uganda, challenges remain, including cultural barriers, early marriages, and inadequate infrastructure.
As we celebrate women today, we must reaffirm our commitment to dismantling these barriers. Providing quality education for girls is essential for fostering a more equitable society. Education empowers women to make informed choices about their health, careers, and families, ultimately leading to a more prosperous nation. The NRM is dedicated to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to receive a quality education, free from discrimination and barriers.
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility
As we celebrate International Women’s Day in Uganda, let us remember that empowering women through healthcare, entrepreneurship, and education is not just a women’s issue; it is a national imperative. It is our collective responsibility to create a society where women can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth. As I, Dr Oledo Samuel Odongo take on the role of the 1st National Vice Chairperson of the NRM, I pledge to advocate for policies and programs that uplift women and ensure their voices are heard in all decision-making processes.
Together, let us build a future where every woman in Uganda has the opportunity to lead a healthy, empowered, and educated life. By investing in women, we are investing in the future of our nation. Today, as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women, let us also commit to the work that lies ahead. Together, we can create a Uganda where every woman can realize her full potential and contribute to a brighter future for all.
Happy women’s day.
Dr. Oledo Samuel Odong
1st National Vice Chairperson NRM
For God and My Country
