By Ben Musanje
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) came together this week to celebrate women who have shaped the nation through courage, leadership, and service. The event, organized by the Radical New Bar, was held on Thursday, 12th March 2026, in Kampala, marking International Women’s Day, which fell on 8th March.
Senior legal leaders, advocates, and civil society actors filled the hall to witness the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to three exceptional women who have dedicated their lives to advancing justice and equality in Uganda.
Senior Counsel Isaac Ssemakadde, President of the Uganda Law Society, opened the ceremony with remarks read by Afra Apio, Head of Rule of Law at ULS. Ssemakadde reflected on the personal impact of fatherhood, sharing that his baby daughter, who recently turned one, had given him a deeper understanding of the importance of creating a fairer and freer future for the next generation.
“When women rise, the whole village rises with them,” Ssemakadde said, quoting the wisdom of ancestors and revolutionary thinkers such as Thomas Sankara. “Advancing gender equality is not charity; it is a prerequisite for collective progress.”
The first award went to Kenya’s Linda Bonyo, founder of Lawyers Hub, in recognition of her groundbreaking work in digital law, technology policy, and legal innovation across Africa. Bonyo via online live streaming from Brussels, Belgium encouraged women to embrace technology and become intellectual influencers, guiding younger women to pursue their goals even amid challenges.
Dr. Lina Zedriga, Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) for Northern Region, received her award for her lifelong dedication to peacebuilding, democracy, and human rights. Zedriga shared her deeply personal journey of imprisonment and political struggle, highlighting how human beings can be reduced to numbers under oppressive systems. Her work has inspired many to remain committed to justice and collective action, even in difficult circumstances.
Dr. Sylvia Namubiru Musafiri, CEO of Legal Aid Service Providers Network (LAPSNET), was honored for her unwavering commitment to expanding access to justice for vulnerable populations. Musafiri dedicated her award to women and girls still facing barriers to legal protection and pledged to continue pushing for social justice for the 80% of Ugandans who currently cannot access legal services. She also highlighted the sacrifices of her parents, especially her mother, for investing in her education and nurturing her early understanding of inequality.
The ceremony also featured remarks from Dr. Stella Nyanzi, a prominent human rights advocate and former political prisoner, who also attended online wearing her Luzira Women’s Prison uniform as a symbol of resistance. Nyanzi celebrated all three awardees, particularly Dr. Zedriga, recognizing her as a mother figure to many, including women outside her political alignment, and praised her support for exiled and vulnerable families. Nyanzi’s words highlighted the challenges faced by women political prisoners and reminded attendees of the broader struggle for freedom and dignity in Uganda.
Throughout the event, Ssemakadde emphasized that while progress has been made, with women now holding over 50% of judicial positions in the country, challenges remain. He called upon women to lead change in areas such as decolonization, demilitarization, democratization, and digital transformation. “Men are not enemies,” he said, “but partners in the pursuit of justice and equality.”
The event was also attended by the NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya and Kassanda district Woman MP Flavia Kalule Nabagabe. The celebration was also a reminder of the personal sacrifices behind public achievements. Awardees shared stories of childhood hardship, professional obstacles, and the resilience needed to persist in the fight for justice. Their speeches underlined a shared message: empowerment is not about recognition alone, but about consistent action, mentorship, and dedication to uplifting communities.
The event concluded with a strong message of hope and commitment. Ssemakadde encouraged attendees to continue the work of giving so that the nation, the profession, and future generations of women and girls may gain. It was a moment that highlighted not only individual accomplishments but also the collective progress of Ugandan women in law, leadership, and society.
As the country watched, the Uganda Law Society’s 70th anniversary celebration paired with International Women’s Day became more than an awards ceremony—it became a tribute to courage, resilience, and the power of women to transform society. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
