New Program Seeks to Empower Karamoja Women Break Barriers

A new initiative aimed at transforming the lives of women in Uganda’s Karamoja region has officially been launched.

Titled “Women Empowerment, Action and Voice in Karamoja,” the program seeks to uplift women’s livelihoods, increase their participation in leadership, and challenge harmful cultural practices.

Spearheaded by the Karamoja Women Umbrella Organization (KAWUO) and funded by a consortium of European partners — the Royal Danish Embassy, Embassy of Ireland, Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Government of Sweden — the program will be rolled out in the districts of Napak, Abim, Moroto, and Nakapiripirit.

At the launch event, KAWUO Executive Director Thomas Odelok emphasized the program’s goal of ensuring women’s voices are heard in both community and political spaces.

“This project will support the participation of women in decision-making and strengthen the capacity of district officials in gender-responsive planning and budgeting,” Odelok said.

A key focus of the program is to advocate for the passage of long-delayed gender-sensitive ordinances aimed at eliminating practices that marginalize women.

The initiative has gained strong support from leaders across various sectors.

Bishop Robert Olupot of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God praised the focus on women’s land rights, calling it long overdue.

Bishop Michael Chorey of the Church of Uganda, Karamoja Diocese, applauded the program for involving men in the empowerment process.

“Development can go far when men are not left behind,” Chorey remarked.

Stephen Odong Latek, Resident District Commissioner of Kaabong, highlighted the role of the initiative in supporting women in political participation.

“Many women shy away from elections due to poverty. A program that helps them engage politically is a step in the right direction,” he said.

The program is seen as a bold move toward gender equality and long-term social change in Karamoja, offering hope and opportunity to thousands of women across the region.