The Minister for the Presidency, MP elect for Budiope West Constituency, and Chairperson of the Women’s League in Buyende District, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, yesterday presided over the International Women’s Day celebrations in Buyende District as the Chief Guest at Kakooge Primary School, Buyende Sub county, and urged women to fully get involved in government wealth creation programs.
The function focused on the theme of “Scaling Up Investment to Accelerate Access to Justice for All Women and Girls.” Minister Babalanda noted that the theme was both timely and important, reminding the women of Buyende District that empowering women goes beyond words. It requires deliberate action to ensure that every woman and girl can access justice, enjoy her rights, and fully participate in the development of the nation.
The minister reiterated that the occasion was not just a celebration but also a moment to reflect on the progress the government has made and to renew the commitment to advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls in the country.
Minister Babalanda expressed gratitude to the people of Buyende District for their continued support of the National Resistance Movement and for overwhelmingly voting for H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the eighth term in office.
“This was a clear vote of confidence in a leader who has consistently championed the rights, dignity, and empowerment of women across Uganda,” she said.
The minister thanked the electorate of Budiope West Constituency for electing her as their Member of Parliament and for entrusting her with the position of Chairperson of the NRM Women’s League in Buyende District.
“I am really grateful for the trust placed in me to represent you in the 12th Parliament. By the grace of God, I have managed to support women’s groups in Buyende through financial support via community SACCOs, empowering them to grow their savings and investments. I have also distributed hens to several households and women’s groups to consolidate government programs like PDM and Emyooga, which all aim at wealth creation. I am committed to transforming our community, and there will be no regrets.”
She urged women to actively participate in government programs so that they can fully share the national cake. “Government programs are in place to support them, but their success depends on active involvement and unity,” she said.
Minister Babalanda also informed the public that the government remains committed to empowering women.
“Under the able leadership of our Father of the Nation, Gen. Rtd. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, we have seen deliberate efforts to elevate women to key positions, such as the Vice President, Maj. Jessica Alupo, the Prime Minister, Rt. Robinah Nabbanja, and several women in Cabinet, including myself, to influence decision making. This is a clear demonstration that this government believes in the capability and leadership of women.”
On access to justice, the minister appealed to the public to continue breaking barriers that prevent women and girls from seeking justice, especially in cases of gender based violence. She called upon local leaders, law enforcement agencies, and communities to work together to ensure that justice is not only available but also accessible and fair to all.
On economic empowerment, the minister encouraged women to actively participate in the money economy by forming development SACCOs and engaging in other income generating initiatives.
“We must move beyond words to actions. Investing in women and girls is not just a moral obligation but a route to sustainable development for our families, our communities, and our nation. Women are the backbone of our society. They are the foundation of families, drivers of community development, and key contributors to our national progress. When we empower a woman, we empower a nation,” she said.
Minister Babalanda commended the people of Buyende for their continued support and commitment to development and urged them to work together to ensure that the rights, justice, and opportunities discussed become a lived reality for every woman and girl.
Hon. Namulondo Sarah, Woman Member of Parliament elect for Buyende District, congratulated the women of Buyende on their transformative journey and applauded Minister Babalanda for being supportive and development oriented.
The head teacher of Kakooge Primary School, Madam Naigaga Mariam, appreciated Minister Milly Babalanda for being a supportive leader who offers assistance to every sector of service.
The function was also attended by area RDCs, district security teams, and many local leaders.
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