MASINDI, May 2, 2026 — The State Minister for Public Service, Mary Mugasa, has urged women in Masindi district to take full advantage of the enabling environment and existing government programmes to improve their livelihoods.
Mugasa made the remarks on Tuesday while presiding over the belated International Women’s Day celebrations at Karujubu Primary School in Karujubu Division, Masindi Municipality.
The event was held under the theme: “Reflecting on the past, strengthening the present, and shaping the future of women’s agenda in Uganda.”
“Given the numerous government programmes and the enabling environment, I do not want to hear that women are empowered but without money in their pockets. The government wants to hear that women are producing different products, investing in real estate, exporting, and also importing,” she said, stressing that household development remains the foundation of national development.
She further encouraged women already engaged in business to take advantage of the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises [GROW] project to scale up their enterprises.
“For those who are just starting, embrace programmes like the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme [UWEP], the Parish Development Model [PDM], and Emyooga, among others. Stop lamenting and start with something small,” Mugasa added.
The Minister also called for gender equality in empowerment efforts, noting that exclusive focus on women and girls could leave some men behind.
“We have many men who are suffering in silence because they have not been empowered to defend themselves. As we advocate for the girl child, the boy child should not be left out. We do not want to see conflicts in families. In case of disagreements, have discussions and reach an agreement. We want to see families engaging in talks aimed at economic growth,” she said.
On corruption in government recruitment, Mugasa said government plans to introduce e-recruitment in the coming financial year as a measure to curb malpractice.
“Cabinet has already resolved this. We are going to start recruiting workers without any human interaction. This is because of the high levels of corruption, where money is extorted from applicants who ultimately do not get jobs. This time, there will be no human interference,” she said.
Masindi District Woman Member of Parliament Florence Asiimwe commended President Yoweri Museveni for his commitment to women’s empowerment, noting that affirmative action policies have strengthened women’s participation in leadership.
However, she said many women, particularly in rural areas, still face significant challenges.
“There are still many dehumanising acts perpetrated against women in different communities, mainly by their spouses. In some communities, women are not participating in decision-making, and girls are being denied education,” she said, calling for fair treatment of women and girls.
She also urged women to respect their spouses regardless of status.
Sarah Gonzaga, Chairperson of the Masindi District Women Council, said the council is conducting district-wide sensitisation campaigns on combating gender-based violence, maintaining financial discipline, and balancing responsibilities.
“We are at the forefront of mobilising women to fully participate in all government programmes aimed at improving livelihoods. We want women to understand how to make money and also to balance responsibilities,” she said.
She added that women in Masindi continue to face challenges including denial of property ownership, limited access to education for girls, domestic mistreatment, and early marriages, largely driven by poverty and ignorance.
She noted that the council, together with other women leaders, established a SACCO to promote savings and access to low-interest loans, and appealed for government support to expand it.
Salaama Kanguse Nyamahunge, representing Masindi District LCV Chairperson Cosmas Byaruhanga, encouraged women to avoid self-doubt and make use of available opportunities.
“Whether you are a woman or a girl, use every available opportunity to transform yourselves. Ensure you live a happy and prosperous life. Embrace savings groups, SACCOs, and high-value crops such as coffee and vegetables,” she said.
Solomon Asiimwe, Chairperson LCIII Karujubu Division, called for the establishment of skills development centres at district level to equip women and girls with sustainable skills.
“The government should continue supporting women with knowledge and skills because they have already demonstrated their capabilities. When empowered and educated, women have great potential, as they have shown in various positions they hold,” he said.
He, however, expressed concern over cultural practices that promote early marriages for girls.
Masindi Municipality Deputy Mayor Betty Kyomuhendo urged parents to prioritise education for both girls and boys to raise responsible citizens.
The celebrations featured drama performances and poetry, reflecting on the historical treatment of women and commending government efforts to improve women’s status in society.
https://thecooperator.news/masindi-leaders-urged-to-ignite-money-economy-mindset-in-communities/
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