By Mulengera Reporters
A new chapter in Uganda’s journey towards social and economic transformation has begun and at the heart of this shift is Loice Natukunda Otafiire, the visionary leader behind Elevate Her Uganda. The launch event, held on Saturday 5th April at Ruhinda Secondary School Grounds in Mitooma Town Council, marked a pivotal moment for women’s empowerment in the country, setting the stage for a future where women are at the forefront of shaping Uganda’s economic destiny.
Loice Natukunda Otafiire, who is the Executive Director for the Foundation ‘Elevate Her Uganda’ and also wife of Gen. Kahinda Otafiire Uganda’s Minister of Internal Affairs, told guests at the event that she is determined to use this very organisation to break down the barriers that have traditionally hindered women’s progress.
The event, which was attended key political figures like Gen. Kahinda Otafiire himself and Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng, was not only a celebration of women’s power but a clear declaration of the changes to come. An over joyed Gen. Kahinda Otafiire delivered his bold and uncompromising message during the Elevate Her Uganda mega launching ceremony in Mitooma. As he spoke, he was proudly flanked by his better half Natukunda Loice, the Executive Director of Elevate Her Uganda.
BOLD VISION FOR WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT: “Today is not just an event; it’s a declaration of a new era for Ugandan women,” Loice Natukunda Otafiire proclaimed, her voice filled with passion and conviction. She emphasized that when women rise, the entire nation rises with them. Her mission with Elevate Her Uganda is clear namely to provide women with the tools, skills and opportunities required to have them become financially independent, socially empowered and leaders in their communities.
Through business training, financial literacy and mentorship, Elevate Her Uganda aims at equipping women with the resources they need to succeed. Loice stressed the importance of creating opportunities rather than charity. “Women don’t need charity. They need opportunity. They need access to capital, networks and skills to change their own destinies,” she said.
STRONG CALL TO ACTION FROM LEADERS: On his part, the deputy speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa (who some time back had fallen out with Gen Otafiire after some public spatting of some two years ago) delivered a powerful address during the same Elevate Her Uganda mega launch in Mitooma over the weekend. He was one of the many high profile speakers who used the event to make powerful speeches focussed at highlighting the importance of women’s role in national transformation.
Renowned for excellent public speaking capabilities, Tayebwa urged Uganda’s elders to focus on shaping the mindset of the younger generation. “We must stop dwelling on the past and focus on how we can empower the youth to excel in today’s world,” said the deputy speaker challenging the audience to become adaptive, look forward and embrace change.
Gen. Kahinda Otafiire spoke about the importance of electing leaders who can deliver real value. “If I have a cow that doesn’t give milk, I take it to the slaughterhouse. Leaders must be chosen based on what they can deliver, not their appearance,” he said urging citizens to make informed choices.
The day’s key note speaker Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who is also the Minister for Health, addressed the need to involve men in the journey of empowerment. She noted that while women’s empowerment is essential, men’s participation is just as crucial for the achievement of the lasting change. “Empowered women will still face challenges if we neglect to involve men. We must walk this journey together,” she said.
Ambassador of the Netherlands to Uganda, Frederieke Quispel who was another key note speaker for the day, spoke about opportunities and potential for global support for women’s transformation. Speaking on behalf of other global figures present, Quispel expressed support for Loice Natukunda Otafiire’s initiative. She praised Mrs. Otafiire for her Elevate Her Uganda initiative. She declared thus: “Women are the backbone of every society and empowering them through skills and opportunities is key to developing entire communities.”
The event also highlighted the practical impact of Elevate Her Uganda’s mission thus far. The program will continue offering a range of initiatives such as extending support to grass root women involved in backyard poultry farming, culinary arts, beekeeping, and fashion design. Loice Natukunda Otafiire explained that the whole thing is aimed at helping women build sustainable businesses and contribute to their communities.
A FUTURE WHERE WOMEN LEAD: As Elevate Her Uganda sets its sights on the future, Loice called on Ugandan citizens, policymakers and international partners to join in the movement. “This is not just about one person or one organization. It’s a revolution,” she said. “We are merely laying the foundation for a future where women are at the heart of Uganda’s economic and social evolution.”
With the support of influential leaders and international allies, Elevate Her Uganda is poised to reshape Uganda’s future. As Loice Natukunda Otafiire leads the charge, the vision of a new era for women, a future where they are empowered, unstoppable and at the forefront of societal change becomes ever more achievable.
The weekend event at Ruhinda Secondary School (on April 5, 2025) was more than a celebration. It was the beginning of a new era in Uganda-and specifically one where women will play a central role in the country’s growth, progress and prosperity. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
