President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on women to take advantage of opportunities in modern agriculture and industrial development as a means to combat poverty and improve household livelihoods.
His message was delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo during the official opening of the International Catholic Women’s Conference held at the Uganda Martyrs Catholic Shrine in Namugongo.
The four-day gathering has drawn women from across the globe to reflect on faith, family, and social responsibility.
According to the President, Uganda’s current poverty levels stand at 16.1%, based on the 2023/24 Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) survey.
This translates to around 7 million Ugandans living below the poverty line, spending less than one US dollar (about UGX 3,600) per day.
He expressed concern that 33% of households in Uganda still depend on subsistence farming producing only enough for home consumption without generating income.
This trend, he warned, risks raising a population trapped in cycles of dependency and inherited poverty.
President Museveni noted that, historically, women were relegated to domestic roles and viewed primarily as caretakers and child bearers.
However, since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power in 1986, these perceptions have shifted.
The government’s policies have created opportunities for women to engage in leadership, business, and various income-generating activities, transforming them into vital contributors to national development.
During the same event, Monica Santa Maria, President General of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO), emphasized the crucial role of women in shaping future generations.
She encouraged mothers and female leaders to actively guide young girls in matters of faith, character, and responsibility, noting that nurturing values at an early age is key to building a meaningful and morally grounded society.
The International Catholic Women’s Conference continues over the next few days, featuring prayer, reflection, and dialogue on issues affecting women and the wider Church community.
By Gideon P Ssebulime
29th July 2025
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