Africa-Press – Uganda. The 7th edition of the Women’s Day Banquet took center stage at Serena Hotel in Kampala, bringing together influential voices to celebrate women’s achievements while addressing persistent gender disparities.
Organized under the theme of empowerment and equity, the event was graced by notable figures, including Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama, who represented President Yoweri Museveni.
Held in partnership with Tooke, a brand specializing in green banana flour under the Banana Industrial Research and Development Centre (BIRDC), the banquet honored women from diverse backgrounds in commemoration of Women’s Month.
A key highlight of the evening was the inspiring journey of Eleanor and Mathew Nabwiso, co-founders of Nabwiso Films.
The couple shared their experiences of co-owning and managing a business, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibilities both in the workplace and at home.
Eleanor reflected on gender roles within their family, explaining how she has always advocated for fairness in household chores, ensuring their two boys and two girls contribute equally.
She recounted an incident when their TV set broke in their absence, and Mathew initially wanted to discipline only the boys.
However, she insisted that accountability should be equal for all children.
“He had let the girls go to their bedroom, but I could not take any of that. Assuming the girls had nothing to do with it, to me, was wrong, and he let me express myself,” she recalled.
Mathew, on the other hand, spoke about the strength of working together, noting that their collaboration strengthens both their business and relationship.
Their discussion underscored the need for equal opportunities not only in the workplace but also at the family level, where attitudes toward gender roles are shaped.
The event, convened by Jane Nandawula, aimed to celebrate projects and products that contribute to national growth.
Among the speakers was Rev. Florence Isabirye, Director General of BIRDC under the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development (PIBID), who highlighted the role of women in community development.
Inspector General of Government Betty Kamya delivered a thought-provoking speech, reflecting on societal expectations that have historically limited women’s aspirations. She recalled a remark from her grandparent: “You are so bright. I wish you could be a teacher or nurse.”—a reminder that, at the time, those were among the few careers deemed suitable for girls.
Kamya also shared her experience running for president, revealing how many voters told her, “You have good ideas, but I wish you were a man,” highlighting the gender biases that persist in politics and leadership.
She also challenged extreme feminism, stating, “Don’t raise monsters and then start NGOs to fight them.” Her remark sparked discussions on balancing advocacy with practical solutions to gender-related issues.
Held during Women’s Month, the Women’s Day Banquet served as a platform to honor women’s successes while fostering conversations about inclusivity, shared responsibilities, and the ongoing fight against gender stereotypes.
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