The Uganda Women’s Manifesto 2026, unveiled in Kampala by the Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET), is a powerful five-year blueprint pushing for systemic change in gender equality, governance, and political inclusion in Uganda. This bold initiative sets out to influence the upcoming 2026 general elections and redefine the national agenda for women’s rights.
This forward-looking manifesto identifies four main pillars that intersect with both local and global development frameworks:
- Human Capital Development
- Climate Justice and Livelihoods
- Gender-Based Violence and Social Norms
- Women’s Inclusion in ICT
A Political Tool for Real Accountability
Rita Aciro, Executive Director of UWONET, emphasized that the Uganda Women’s Manifesto 2026 is more than a declaration—it’s a political and policy tool meant to demand accountability from political parties, elected officials, and public servants.
“The manifesto sets out the concerns of women in Uganda and demands accountability from all political parties, elected candidates, and public officeholders,” Aciro said.
She urged political actors to adopt issue-based campaign strategies, especially on issues that directly impact women and girls.
Election Violence: A Major Barrier
Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya raised concerns about electoral violence, pointing out that such hostility deters women from political participation.
“If the police and military continue beating people, women cannot participate in such an environment,” he cautioned.
His remarks underline the urgency of reforming Uganda’s election security and law enforcement culture, especially as the 2026 elections approach.
Legislative Roadblocks
Despite the manifesto’s ambitions, real change could be hampered by legal and structural barriers. Sarah Opendi, chairperson of the Uganda Women Parliamentary Association, acknowledged the need for legislative amendments, particularly around gender parity.
“We’ve waited for government-led electoral reforms, but nothing has materialised,” she noted.
The 12-month freeze on amending laws before an election further complicates timely reforms.
Affirmative Action Isn’t Enough
Minister of State for Gender and Culture Peace Mutuuzo criticized Uganda’s current affirmative action framework, calling it inadequate. The “one-woman-per-district” model, she said, has failed to ensure at least 30% representation of women in Parliament.
“It is presidential appointments that raise the numbers. We need a proper review,” Mutuuzo asserted.
This echoes the manifesto’s call for inclusive, transformative governance structures.
Holistic Support for Women
Beyond politics, the Uganda Women’s Manifesto 2026 also emphasizes psychosocial and economic rehabilitation for women affected by systemic violence and displacement. It calls for greater investment in education and digital inclusion, especially in rural areas, where access is limited.