Leaders in Masindi District under the Bunyoro Kingdom have intensified pressure on government to prioritise women's empowerment, warning that persistent challenges continue to hold back development in the region.
The leaders made the call during a meeting held at Kalujubu Primary School in Masindi Municipality, which brought together local officials and women from across the district to discuss key issues affecting women and girls.
They highlighted a range of challenges, including domestic violence, school dropout among girls, and limited access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.
According to participants, these issues must be urgently addressed and integrated into the government's next five-year development plan if meaningful progress is to be achieved.
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Members of Parliament, including Alex Akugizibwe, expressed concern over the state of maternal health, noting that many women continue to die during childbirth due to inadequate healthcare services.
He called on government to strengthen the health system and prioritise maternal care as part of broader efforts to improve women's welfare.
State Minister for Public Service Mary Mugasa said government is committed to addressing challenges faced by workers, especially women, and improving transparency in public service recruitment.
She revealed plans to introduce an electronic application system that will allow job seekers to apply for government positions online, a move aimed at reducing corruption in hiring processes.
The Woman Member of Parliament for Masindi District, Florence Asiimwe, urged women to take a more active role in economic activities and avoid undermining their own potential.
However, she also stressed the need for government to address structural barriers affecting women, particularly in rural communities where access to services remains limited.
Meanwhile, Florence Akikii used the platform to reaffirm her intention to contest for the position of Speaker in the 12th Parliament.
Leaders at the meeting emphasized that empowering women through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities is critical not only for gender equality but also for broader national development.
