Empowering Women, Celebrating Progress: Uganda’s 2025 Women’s Banquet Spotlights Female Leadership and Innovation

In traditional African societies, women were often viewed as less significant contributors to national development due to entrenched perceptions and gender stereotypes. Their roles were largely confined to the home—preparing meals, raising children, and managing household chores. However, in the 20th century, women’s emancipation has gained momentum, and today, women are increasingly liberated from societal constraints, achieving equal rights and status alongside men across social, economic, political, and cultural spheres.

In line with this shift, Jane Nandawula of Profile Communications Uganda launched the Women’s Banquet—an annual event that this year took place on March 25, 2025, at the Serena Hotel in Kampala. The banquet was held during Women’s Month in celebration of International Women’s Day and aimed to honor projects and products that significantly contribute to national growth. It also served as a powerful platform to recognize women’s achievements, encourage dialogue on shared responsibilities, and advocate for inclusivity and the dismantling of gender stereotypes.

The 2025 theme, “All Women and Girls: Rights, Equity, Empowerment,” guided high-level discussions and highlighted remarkable contributions to the advancement of women in Uganda.

The event’s chief guest, Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama, represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. In her address, she praised Uganda’s progress in promoting women’s empowerment, noting milestones in leadership, affirmative action, and free education. She emphasized the government’s long-term commitment to financial inclusion, educational access, leadership opportunities, and policy reforms to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal representation.

Other notable dignitaries included Inspector General of Government Betty Olive Namisango Kamya, who shared personal reflections on her journey running for president. She revealed the discouraging remarks she received, such as, “You have good ideas, but I wish you were a man,” underscoring the persistent gender biases that women continue to face in politics and leadership.

Among the most heartwarming moments of the evening was the appearance of comedian Allan Mujuni (a.k.a. Amooti Omubalanguzi) and his daughter Constance Kemigisha (Coco). Their father-daughter bond and shared passion for the arts—especially Coco’s rise in comedy, modeling, and dance—captivated the audience. Their story highlighted the rare yet powerful example of a father who wholeheartedly supports his daughter’s dreams.

Eleanor and Mathew Nabwiso, co-founders of Nabwiso Films, also took the stage to discuss the balance of responsibilities in both business and home life. Eleanor spoke passionately about fairness within their household, where their two sons and two daughters are encouraged to contribute equally, challenging traditional gender roles.

Another highlight was the recognition of Tooke Flour, a revolutionary product made from green bananas (matooke), developed under the Presidential Initiative for Banana Industrial Development, led by Rev. Florence Isabirye Muranga. She noted that this innovation has economically empowered women across Uganda while contributing to national food security. The product, now used for quick meals and snacks, showcases the transformative power of women-led innovations.

The banquet was not just a celebration but also a call to action—urging the removal of structural barriers, increased support for women-owned businesses, and stronger legal protections for women.