General
Mak Gender Directorate to Start Women’s Forum Amidst Calls for More Female Representation in Leadership
By Marion Alina and Rachel Kanyi
The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) at Makerere University has embarked on an aggressive agenda to train female staff on leadership skills. This agenda is informed by the absence of women in several top leadership positions at Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning.
Makerere University, for instance, has no record of a female Chancellor or Vice Chancellor in its 100+ years of existence. As of 2024, the Vice Chancellor and his two deputies are all male. The female voices are partially comforted by the fact that the current Chairperson of Council is female. Through GMD, a wave is burgeoning to change this trend. To kick start this agenda, the Directorate held a two-day workshop (28th-29th May 2024) that attracted over 70 female staff at Makerere and other universities. The meet-up was part of activities under a Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. It ran under the theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’.
According to Ms Susan Mbabazi, a Principal Gender Officer at GMD, the workshop aimed at among other things to generate strategies on how women can position themselves for future leadership.
The project Principal Investigator who also doubles as the Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, called upon women to gain confidence and stand out whenever leadership opportunities arise. “There is need for women to be on the discussion table, making decisions as opposed to keeping at the back. It is high time women gained confidence and took on these leadership opportunities. It all starts right from where you are,” she guided. She tipped women on how to balance work life with other responsibilities. A firm-talking Euzobia rebuked the scenario where women get successful in one aspect of life and fail to handle other aspects. “A woman can be successful both in her career and home. You need to adopt life skills such as excellent time management, multi-tasking and also learn to prioritize what is important. As women, you can be a mother and also a career lady, find a formula to balance life as career worker, mother and wife,” she emphasized.
“Despite all the various efforts at national and international level, the number of women is not growing as fast as needed. Across the board in public and private institutions, women are persistently few in numbers as staff, but more so in leadership and decision making organs,” explained Assoc. Prof. Consolata Kabonesa, the project Co-Principal Investigator. “Females still face a lot of challenges some of which are institutional, personal, social/family related and economic. Under this project, we will conduct a situation analysis of the gender terrain across six public universities. These include Makerere, Kabale, Gulu, Busitema, Muni & Mbarara University of Science & Technology. We intend to obtain baseline information encompassing the composition of governance & leadership organs by gender; the composition of senior staff by gender; needs assessment and profiles of potential mentors and mentees; capacity to conduct gender-responsive research; and exploration of the male staff engagement in gender equality/equity interventions,” she added.
Speaking at the same workshop, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze shared her experience as Dean, School of Public Health. “All the Heads of Department at the School of Public Health are women. The Deputy Dean is a man. When I was a student at this school, I never saw a female Head of Department or Dean. In my first week as Dean, I heard somebody say; will this woman manage? It is then that I felt that this space had to change. People had to get used to accepting that women can deliver,” she said. “Do not limit your abilities and qualifications to where you are. Do not look at Makerere for your growth, the world is big with many other opportunities. Lay your nets everywhere, it is another way of adding value to Makerere University. Work with people who are better than you. How can you become better if you dislike better? How will money come to you if you talk ill of people with money? I love working with smart people. You are as good as the company you keep,” she added.
The outgoing Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Prof. Josephine Ahikire called upon women to be more intentional in taking up leadership positions at all levels in the university. “At CHUSS, we have a critical mass of qualifying females. But you need to aspire too. There are new ways through which patriarchy recreates itself and brings women down even when they qualify. You therefore ought to be determined and stand strong in order to take on these leadership spaces,’ she argued. Prof. Ahikire advised women to understand their work environment and policies, since this will help propel them higher. “It is quite helpful to understand the institution, policies, and have them on your fingertips so that you are not looking for favouritism. We need a critical mass in these mid-level and upper positions. We need to be more intentional and have unity among us, fighting against ourselves will not put us anywhere,” she emphasized. As she leaves office, Prof. Ahikire was proud of leaving behind a vibrant CHUSS. “I’ have enjoyed being a leader. CHUSS has five schools and one institute. Four of these schools are led by women. We have three Deans and MISR is headed by a woman too,” she said to a thunderous applause.
Basing on her leadership experience, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Bunyoro University, Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo advised women to strategise and use every opportunity available in leadership by showing up, even when they know they will not win the race. She noted that the act of showing interest is a visibility gate for them to be known and adopt good networks in the world. She tipped women on ways of navigating the maze synonymous with work environments. “Learn the insider system in order to know how things are done. Do not fear failure since it is part of the leadership game,” she counselled.
In her advice to participants about the challenges that manifest with showing interest in leadership, the Manager of the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) at Makerere University, Prof. Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza cautioned that, “it is when you have shown interest in leadership that people start uttering all sorts of insults just to discourage and intimidate you because they think women break down so fast. Do not allow yourself to be pulled down. Know when to talk, when to engage and when to act. Sometimes give them silence and move on, it is better than fighting or responding back at insults.” Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, who is a professor at the Department of Performing Arts and Film, CHUSS emphasized the value of mentorship. She recommended that women ought to have a mentor for these leadership positions. She praised Prof. Bantebya for having been a good mentor to her.
The Director for Africa 4W Women and Wellbeing Initiative at the School of Human Ecology University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, Dr. Deborah Kaddu-Serwadda noted that Uganda can leverage the success of Makerere University’s gender mainstreaming policy to build a critical mass of university students, faculty, and staff; able to work together. She mentioned some of the proposed objectives of a 4W Initiative Pilot at Makerere University, Uganda as: piloting an interdisciplinary multigenerational higher education collaboration for the promotion of gender equality and women’s wellbeing. The pilot project would further initiate an academic women leaders’ South to North research-to-action network for gender equality and social transformation. She emphasized the need for self-priority and love and advised women to also think about their lives first before prioritizing other people. “You offer what you have, first build yourself, then extend it to others. This does not mean that you become selfish. I refer you to 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8,” she preached.
The Senior Gender Mainstreaming Officer, Mr Eric Tumwesigye reminded participants that gender constructs are made and maintained by society. “Society has already written a script for every gender and that is how it tends to judge you. Society expects a man to provide for his family and failure to do so could be interpreted as grave on the man’s part. He will be identified with all sorts of names. This can be challenged,” he said.
Ms Caroline Abilat Asio, a Gender Officer at GMD used the Gender River of life concept to inspire women to rise to leadership. Using this analogy, she explained that every river widens and narrows at some point. And that likewise everyone experiences moment of challenges and triumph interchangeably.
With the workshop now ignited, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine took to the stage to propose a women’s forum; a platform she hopes will help to unify the voice of women. “Where is the women’s voice in several of the issues around us? Who articulates our issues? What can we do differently so as to create that space for women? To help answer this question, we intend to launch a Makerere University Women’s Forum. This forum should be our space. We shall have regular meetings,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Ms Phoebe Kamya Lutaaya, the Deputy Coordinator at Mak-RIF encouraged the participants to broaden their network. “Experience has shown me that the higher you go in the ranks, the lonelier you become. To prevent this, learn to survive in the changing political environment at the workplace,” she said.
By Carol Kasujja Adii
The former Executive Director of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), Mrs Allen Kagina, has challenged leaders to exercise integrity not only in words but in action.
Mrs Kagina made the call on Friday 7th March during the 3rd Sarah Nyendwoha Ntiro annual public Lecture held at the School of Public Health Auditorium at Makerere University, where she delivered the keynote address.
The memorial lecture was held under the theme: “Pioneering change and transforming Institutions”
Sarah Ntiro was a trailblazer, a woman who defied societal norms and dedicated her life to advancing education and gender equality. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a blueprint for how individuals can catalyze institutional and societal transformation.
Delivering her keynote speech, Mrs Kagina noted that when she took on the role of Executive Director at UNRA, she faced challenges because the institution was plagued by inefficiency, corruption and delayed projects, but with integrity and innovations, together with her team they rebuilt UNRA’s credibility.
“Leadership must be anchored in integrity because ethical leadership fosters a culture of accountability and transparency. As a leader, you must create an environment where people feel confident that decisions are made in the best interest of the institution and those it serves,” Mrs Kagina, said.
Mrs Kagina narrated that in order to rebuild UNRA’s credibility, she had to take difficult decisions by removing corrupt and underperforming staff and ensured that the institution was staffed by competent and ethical professionals.
According to Mrs Kagina, no leader can succeed alone. Institutional transformation depends on the collective efforts of individuals committed to the same purpose.
“Investing in people through training, mentorship and empowerment creates a culture of ownership and innovation. When employees are engaged and valued, they become champions of change rather than passive participants,” Mrs Kagina, noted.
Using her leadership journey at Uganda Revenue Authority, Mrs Kagina explained that she learnt that effective leadership is the cornerstone of institutional transformation.
She told the audience that when she joined URA, the institution was struggling with corruption, inefficiency and lack of public trust, together with a small team, they restructured the organization by removing corrupt elements and enforcing transparency at every level something that changed URA’s image.
“We introduced technology to reduce human interference in tax collection. We fostered a culture of accountability and cooperation. These reforms were challenging but they ultimately restored URA’s credibility and set a new standard for public institutions in Uganda,” She pointed out.
Drawing lessons from Ntiro’s life, Mrs Kagina, explained that although Ntiro’s journey was marked by numerous challenges, from systemic gender discrimination to societal resistance, she remained steadfast in her mission, demonstrating that resilience is essential for overcoming obstacles.
“Her ability to persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable barriers, serves as a powerful reminder that change often requires enduring hardship with unwavering determination,” Mrs Kagina, said.
Mrs Kagina noted that one of Ntiro’s greatest legacies is the generation of women she inspired to pursue leadership roles. Noting that by empowering others to lead, Ntiro ensured that her work would continue long after her time.
“Ntiro’s ability to articulate a compelling vision for a more equitable society was central to her success. She inspired others to believe in the possibility of change and to work toward it with passion and commitment. Her leadership demonstrates that a clear, inspiring vision is essential for mobilizing people and driving institutional transformation,” Mrs Kagina, said.
In her closing remarks, Mrs Kagina called upon those in leadership positions to emulate people like Ntiro who demonstrated resilience, advocacy and strategic reforms to transform even the most rigid systems.
During the function, Mrs Lorna Magara, the Chairperson Makerere University Council, said that Ntiro’s story reminds people that true pioneers do not wait for change, they create it, look beyond existing limitations and imagine possibilities that others may not see.
“Mrs Kagina powerfully articulated that transformative leadership is not about being the first woman in the room, but ensuring you are not the last. When women lead with courage and vision, we do not just change organisations, we redefine the very essence of leadership,” Mrs Magara, said.
Mrs Magara, reminded students, researchers and leaders that every challenge they encounter should be treated as an opportunity to reimagine possibilities and shape the future.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs/Academic Registrar, Prof Mukadasi Buyinza, pointed out that Ntiro’s story teaches generations that transformative change is not about grand gestures but consistent and principled action.
“Her story reminds us that progress is a collective endeavor. It requires individuals willing to challenge systemic barriers, sacrifice personal comfort and create pathways for those who follow. As we honor Ntiro’s memory, we are called to continue her work to pioneer change, transform institutions and build a more equitable future for Uganda and the African continent,” Prof Buyinza, said.
Moderating the panel discussion, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Dean, School of Women and Gender Studies Mrs. Allen Kagina her inspiring keynote speech. “Some of the points I kept hearing were reforms, integrity, teamwork, celebrating the pioneers on whose shoulders we stand and most interestingly, those who worked on the ecosystem to make it possible.”
She equally thanked the second panelist Mrs. Elizabeth Mushabe, a passionate gender equity and social justice advocate with over twenty years of experience in community systems strengthening, for richly contributing to the day’s discussion.
Prof. Ssali highlighted two points for the audience to take keen note of in order to address social problems; one, the behavioural transformation that considers the empowerment we undergo as individuals and two, the structural transformation which addresses issues in the ecosystem.
“When you are talking about a girl being empowered to do very well, that is a behavioural approach, when you are talking about putting in place systems, and polices and laws that prevent teenage pregnancy and exploitation, you are talking about the structural thing. We need to operate in both ways and I hope that from the gallant ladies we have in this country, you have learnt how to address issues both behaviourally and structurally” Prof. Ssali counselled.
In her remarks, Dr Ruth Nsibirano, the head of the Gender Studies Department, urged Institutions to work towards inclusive and empowering education processes and practices.
“As the Department of Women and Gender Studies, we take pride in Ntiro’s legacy. We use this day as a platform to celebrate achievements the women of Uganda have made and to stand for the global sisterhood as we advance gender equality and social inclusion,” Dr Nsibirano, said.
Ntiro at glance
Born in 1926 in Bunyoro, Ntiro grew up in a society where opportunities for women were severely limited, but she excelled academically and became the first East African woman to graduate from the University of Oxford in 1951.
Ntiro returned to Uganda and began her career as a teacher. She faced systemic gender discrimination, including being paid less than her male counterparts. In protest, she worked without pay, something which sparked national debate about gender equality.
Her advocacy for girls’ education was rooted in the belief that educated women could drive societal transformation. Her impact extended far beyond her immediate community. Her work laid the Foundation for a more inclusive and equitable education system in Uganda and across East Africa. She inspired a generation of women to pursue leadership roles and challenged deeply ingrained gender norms.
On 8th March 2025, the world will celebrate International Women’s Day with the inspiring theme “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This theme encourages us to take meaningful actions toward achieving equal rights, power, and opportunities for all, fostering a feminist future where all young women can thrive. This theme resonates deeply with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, which is dedicated to empowering young women to emerge as transformative leaders and change-makers in their communities. Today, we proudly highlight one of our Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni, Ms. Winnie Kushaba.
Winnie is a powerful example of what is possible when access to education and empowerment is prioritized for women and girls. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance, serving as an inspiring model for aspiring scientists. By breaking through barriers, Winnie continues to advance her career and contribute to the growing field of chemistry in Uganda, paving the way for future generations of women and girls.
Who is Winnie Kushaba
Winnie Kushaba was born on 21st December 1994 in Rakai District. Challenges marked her early life as she grew up in a complex family environment. Although her biological mother was absent, Winnie was raised by her stepmother and later by her maternal grandmother, with additional support from her maternal aunt. Throughout her childhood, Winnie experienced several transitions as she sought stability. She moved between various locations, including Rakai, Ibanda, Kiruhura, Kazo, and Isingiro, searching for a place to call home. Each transition contributed to her resilience and adaptability, shaping the strong character with which she navigated these changes.
Winnie speaks openly about her childhood challenges.
“I have never met my biological mother, and I do not know if she is alive or not,” she asserts. “As the firstborn in a family of five children, each from a different mother, I took on the significant responsibility of caring for my four brothers from the age of eight,” Winnie explains. It is this experience that has instilled in her a strong sense of resilience and leadership.
Early Education
At age five, Winnie was enrolled at Katembi Primary School in Isingiro district, where her father was a teacher. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before her father developed a mental illness, which ultimately led to his passing. This tragic event marked the start of Winnie’s educational struggles. Despite these challenges, Winnie was a resilient young girl determined to pursue her education at any cost.
She moved from one school to another, receiving support from generous individuals who provided bursaries for her at various local schools. Winnie attended six primary schools before finally taking her Primary Leaving Examinations at Mwamba Junior School, where her aunt had enrolled her. Despite the numerous school transitions and changes, Winnie excelled in her final exams, emerging as the top student in her school.
Pursuing Secondary Education…
Winnie’s outstanding performance in the Primary Leaving Examinations earned her a bursary to attend Mwamba Secondary School for her lower secondary education. Shortly thereafter, she was allowed to transfer to St. Catherine Girls’ School in Kiruhura District, where she was welcomed into her paternal grandmother’s home. With the unwavering support of her grandmother and aunt, Winnie not only completed her Form Four final examinations but also distinguished herself as one of the top students at her school. This journey highlights her resilience and determination to pursue academic excellence.
Pursuing High School Education…
After achieving outstanding results in her Form Four examinations in 2010, Winnie felt optimistic about her future and hoped her generous benefactors would support her enrollment in Advanced Level education. However, due to financial constraints, her elderly grandmother and aunt could not afford her high school tuition, which led to a challenging four-year absence from formal education. During this time, Winnie dedicated herself to various community jobs to save money for her schooling.
A compassionate Catholic nun recognized her potential in a positive turn of events in 2014. She offered her a bursary to attend Boncosilli Catholic School in Isingiro district, providing Winnie with a renewed opportunity to pursue her dreams. At Boncosilli Catholic School, she pursued a challenging combination of Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics, ultimately earning 13 points in her final examinations. While this score was considered quite good for someone who had been out of school for four years, it unfortunately fell short of the requirements for a government scholarship to attend university. This placed Winnie in another difficult situation, forcing her to remain out of school for another two years.
Unlike her earlier experience in Form Four when she was still relatively young, this time, due to her age, her two-year absence from education attracted the attention of many village men who began asking for her hand in marriage. The situation became so overwhelming that her aunt started locking her indoors during the day, allowing her to leave only in the evenings to protect her from the advances of the village men.
Securing a scholarship through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to attend the University…
When all hope seemed lost for Winnie to attend university, a young man who lived in her neighbourhood and was a student at Makerere University informed her about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program scholarships available at the University. Seizing the opportunity, Winnie boarded a bus to Kampala, Uganda’s capital, for the first time. She collected the scholarship forms, and, as luck would have it, she was awarded the scholarship in 2016 to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany and Chemistry.
At Makerere University, Winnie’s full potential was honed. Despite a challenging childhood that affected her well-being, the psychosocial support and academic assistance from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program played a pivotal role in her journey. With this support, she completed her studies and graduated in 2021.
“Had it not been for the [Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program] Team’s psychosocial and remedial academic support, completing my university education would have been challenging,” Winnie asserts.
Life after Makerere University….
After graduating from Makerere University, Winnie began her professional journey with a graduate internship at Bio Fresh Ltd. This company exports fresh fruits and vegetables to the European Union market. Starting her career in the Quality Control department, she quickly demonstrated her skills and commitment. Her exceptional performance as an intern led to a full-time position as a Quality Control Officer. Over the next four years, Winnie continued to advance within the organization, and she now holds the dual roles of Product Development Manager and Internal Control Systems Manager at Bio Fresh. Her progress reflects her dedication and talent in the field.
Impact on the Community….
Through her work earnings, Winnie has significantly impacted her community. She has ensured that her siblings receive a quality education by covering their school fees and supported her paternal aunt by constructing a comfortable home. Additionally, she has played a vital role in helping two young girls from Kaberamaido district return to school.
“With my earnings, I am dedicated to ensuring my younger brothers receive a quality education. One is currently studying for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Gulu University, the other is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences at Ibanda University, and the youngest is in form four,” Winnie happily shares. “I have also been able to support two vulnerable young girls from the Kaberamaido District in Eastern Uganda who had dropped out of school by helping them return to their studies because they reminded me of my troubled childhood,” Winnie adds, with a look of satisfaction on her face.
Winnie has also established skills programs to empower young women, especially mothers in Gayaza, a suburb of Kampala. By training and mentoring them in entrepreneurship, she has equipped these women to start small businesses, such as snack production and selling fruits and vegetables. This initiative has enabled them to achieve financial independence and improve their livelihoods.
Looking into the future….
Winnie has a clear vision for her future and confidently shares her aspirations. In the immediate term, she plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Quality Control Management in 2026, followed by a PhD in the same field shortly thereafter. Winnie is passionate about conducting research that enhances the quality of crops and plants in Uganda, aiming to make a meaningful contribution to this important area of knowledge. Additionally, as a devoted mother of one, she is committed to creating a nurturing and enriching environment for her children, ensuring they have a fulfilling childhood complete with opportunities she wishes she had.
Message to fellow young women…
Winnie urges young women to remain steadfast while pursuing their dreams, even when faced with challenges and difficult circumstances. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating small achievements and encourages individuals to excel in all their endeavours. No matter the obstacles, she believes in the power of determination and resilience to help them reach their fullest potential.
“I urge my fellow young women in Uganda to remain resilient in the face of challenges. It’s important to actively nurture your dreams and maintain hope, as these are essential for unlocking your true potential,” Winne emphasizes.
Bernard Buteera, the Principal Communications and Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, conducted the interview.
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