Uganda Women Leaders Report Continued Intimidation After January Elections

Despite women playing a major role as voters and mobilisers during the polls, they remain underrepresented in key decision-making positions, according to the coordinator. "Women's labour is needed, but their influence is denied," she said. She called for reforms in electoral justice, political financing and internal party structures.

She warned that entrenched godfatherism continues to block women's advancement in politics and urged investment in young women leaders and broader cultural change.

The Executive Director of Uganda Women's Network said the post-election period should be used to strengthen unity among women leaders and develop a shared national agenda. She urged women in politics, civil society, business and community leadership to put aside divisions.

"This is a moment to reflect, recommit, and rise," she said. She warned that fragmentation among women could slow progress on gender equality and the empowerment of girls. "We cannot afford to be divided because our cause for women's rights and gender equality is still high on the agenda," she added.

She called for the development of a coordinated five-year agenda for women. The director noted that current female leaders are beneficiaries of sacrifices made by earlier generations. While acknowledging gains in women's representation, she cautioned that new challenges are emerging regarding the quality and influence of women's leadership.

"We are now seeing issues of quality. As we address numbers, we must also address influence and impact," she said. The conference brought together women leaders from political parties, civil society, local government and community structures to harmonise priorities following the January 2026 elections.