Breaking Barriers: Uganda’s First-Ever Women Workers’ Celebration Makes History

Breaking Barriers: Uganda’s First-Ever Women Workers’ Celebration Makes History

On March 17, 2025, over 183 workers—81% of them women—gathered in Bweyogerere for Uganda’s first-ever Women Workers’ International Women’s Day celebration, jointly organised by PSI, NOTU, and COFTU, highlighting the push for gender equality.

Everline Aketch

On March 17, 2025, Uganda marked a significant milestone as over 183 workers, 81% of them women from more than 30 trade unions affiliated with NOTU and COFTU, gathered in Bweyogerere for the first-ever Women Workers’ International Women’s Day celebration. This event was organized in collaboration with the Public Services International (PSI), National Organisation of Trade Unions (NOTU) and the Central Organisation of Free Trade Unions (COFTU) under the theme "Accelerating Gender Equality for a Sustainable Future."

A Day of Unity, Music, and Sports

The event commenced with a 2-kilometer march from Namboole Stadium, led by a marching band, bringing together trade unionists, policymakers, and gender equality advocates. The General Secretary of the Artists and Musicians Union energized the crowd with music performances, setting a celebratory yet determined tone for the day. The program also included sports competitions, such as a football match between NOTU and COFTU women, sack races, a 400-meter relay, and a 100-meter sprint, with trophies and medals awarded to outstanding participants. These activities highlighted the collective spirit and resilience of women workers. 

Commitment to Gender Equality in Workplaces

The event underscored the importance of ILO Convention 190 (C190) in addressing violence and harassment at work. "C190 is a transformative tool. It ensures legal protection for all workers, recognizes the impact of domestic violence on employment, and is critical in achieving true gender equality in the workplace." 

There remains a strong commitment to advocating for the full implementation of this convention to create safe, inclusive, and harassment-free workplaces for all.

Recognition was extended to the Government of Uganda for ratifying C190 in 2023, a significant step toward ensuring protection against workplace violence and harassment. Additionally, the 1/3 gender rule has played an essential role in promoting women's participation in leadership and governance. However, there is a need for this principle to be reflected across all sectors of the economy, including workplaces, to ensure true gender inclusivity. 

Government Support and the Minimum Wage Debate

The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development reaffirmed the government’s commitment to:

  • Integrating C190 into Uganda’s labor laws

  • Expanding social protection for women in both formal and informal sectors

  • Enhancing enforcement of workplace safety policies

The event also saw a renewed push for the Minimum Wage Bill, which has remained stagnant since President Museveni’s veto in 2015. MPs present committed to advocating for its revival, recognizing that Uganda’s minimum wage of UGX 6,000 ($1.60) set in 1984 is no longer sustainable.

“It is time to enact fair wages that reflect today’s economic realities,” emphasized MP Ethel Naluyima, echoing the concerns of workers across the nation. 

Findings on Workplace Harassment

A 2022 PSI study on Occupational Health and Safety in Uganda revealed:

  • A high prevalence of workplace violence and harassment, often unreported

  • Fear of retaliation discouraging victims from speaking out

  • Lack of effective workplace safety policies

These findings emphasize the need for the urgent implementation of C190 to ensure that all workplaces are free from harassment and violence. 

Trade Unions Pledge Gender Inclusion

A significant commitment emerged from NOTU and COFTU to promote women into leadership positions, challenging the traditional male-dominated structure of trade unions. Women workers also showcased their entrepreneurial ventures, displaying handmade soaps, food products, and artisanal crafts, illustrating economic resilience despite workplace inequalities. 

Appreciation for Sponsors & Media Coverage

The success of this event was made possible through the generous support of:

  • Public Services International (PSI) – Championing gender equality globally

  • SASK Finland – Strengthening trade unions and advocating for decent work

  • NOTU – A key partner in mobilizing workers and advocating for progressive labor policies 

Media coverage from Daily Monitor, New Vision, and NTV Uganda, major radio channels played a crucial role in amplifying the impact of the discussions, ensuring that these conversations extend beyond the event itself.

A Global Call to Action

This historic milestone for women workers in Uganda marks the beginning of a sustained advocacy effort. Moving forward, there is a need to continue pushing for:

  • Full implementation of C190 – End workplace violence!

  • A fair minimum wage – Protect workers from exploitation!

  • Gender parity in trade union leadership – Women must lead!

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