Women’s Representation in Uganda Parliament Stalls at 35%

Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, has emphasized the need for women to contest in open or directly elected constituencies.

Peace Mutuuzo, made a call to action on Monday during the second special women’s sitting of parliament an event held in preparation for International Women’s Day, scheduled for this Saturday in Kyankwanzi.

The Minister stressed that if women do not contest for open seats, men will dominate them, highlighting the importance of increasing women’s representation in the House. She urged women to move beyond relying solely on affirmative action seats.

During the same event, Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Anita Among emphasized the need for strengthened socialization on family and societal levels, particularly among men, to promote gender inclusivity.

Among highlighted issues such as rape, school dropouts, early marriages, and cultural aspects that require sensitive attention.

“We need to strengthen the socialization on family level and sensitization, especially among men, on the need for gender inclusivity in all aspects of life. Men need to know that inclusivity is very important. These issues of rape, school dropouts, early marriages, and cultural aspects need sensitive attention,” said Speaker Among.

The event also saw the election of Hajjat Faridah Kibowa as Speaker and Hon. Mackline Natukwasa as her deputy. Over 400 women leaders from across the country attended the second Women’s Parliament seating.

Mutuuzo’s call to action is particularly significant, given that women’s representation in Uganda’s parliament has stagnated at around 35% for the past 25 years.

Women face various challenges in politics, including abuse and negative perceptions, which can hinder their ability to participate effectively.