Jinja City, Uganda — April 19, 2024
The She Leads consortium, in collaboration with the Uganda Women’s Parliamentary Association (UWOPA) and other Youth Advocacy and Development Network Organisations, successfully hosted a revolutionary lobby and consultative meeting at the Busoga Lukiiko in Bugembe, Jinja City, on April 19, 2024. The event brought together cultural leaders from the Busoga Kingdom, Busoga Youth Council Leaders, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), media representatives, and Girls and Young Women (GYW) to discuss the Marriage Bill 2022.
Among the cultural leaders who represented the kingdom included Owek Dr. Joyce Abaliwano Minister of Gender, Women and Children affairs, Minister of Lands Owek Kyangwa Fred, Minister of A bgriculture Owek Wakalali Matia and the deputy speaker Butembe Chiefdom Owek Debora Christine Magezi.
The meeting, which aligned with She Leads’ strategic objective of enhancing the sustained influence of girls and young women (GYW) in decision-making and transforming gender norms, focused on capturing a diverse range of voices and perspectives. Participants engaged in lively discussions about the Marriage Bill, sharing their thoughts, concerns, and suggestions for the proposed legislation.
Mr. George Kagwire a programs manager at Uganda Women Parliament Association informed that UWOPA is committed to sustaining the momentum generated by this meeting and promised to continue engaging with more stakeholders across the region to ensure that the Marriage Bill reflects the needs and values of the local community while advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Mr Christopher Kirabe a programs coordinator in the She Leads Consortium said that several Key topics which included the impact of the Marriage Bill on gender equality, the role of cultural practices in marriage, and the importance of empowering young women in the decision-making process were discussed during the meeting.
Local leaders led by Owek Joyce Abaliwano Minister of Gender, Women and Children affairs, Busoga Kingdom provided additional perspectives, highlighting the importance of collaboration and community engagement in shaping the future of marriage laws in Uganda. “The new law targets even those who attend the early marriage celemonies. As as a minister for children affairs, we shall use that law to enforce the prevention of early teenage marriages in the region” She informed.
Furthermore, other cultural leaders who were present contributed valuable insights, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that respects traditional values while promoting gender equality and women’s rights. The presence of girls and young women added a unique and vital dimension to the conversation, ensuring that their voices were heard and considered.
The event also served to strengthen the collaboration between She Leads Busoga Regional Alliance, UWOPA and the Busoga Kingdom, fostering a closer partnership in addressing key issues affecting the region. Participants expressed optimism about the future of the Marriage Bill and the potential for positive change through continued dialogue and cooperation.
The successful outcome of the consultative meeting marks a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all Ugandans. The organizers extend their gratitude to all who participated and look forward to further collaboration in the months ahead.
