Govt establishes legal frameworks to avert discrimination against women, says Minister Amongi

By Our Reporter

Access to justice for women and girls in Uganda remains a complex issue, influenced by a mix of patriarchal cultural norms, systemic economic marginalization, and gaps in legal enforcement. These challenges continue to result in high rates of violence and inequality.

Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development Betty Amongi highlighted that while Uganda has progressive laws promoting gender equality, women still face widespread discrimination in both private and public spheres. Economic marginalization continues to complicate their access to justice.

Speaking at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women at its headquarters in New York on March 10, 2026, Amongi noted that customary laws restrict women’s inheritance rights, leaving widows vulnerable and without security.

“Economic opportunities for women remain limited, pushing many into low-wage or informal work,” Amongi said. “Despite these challenges, Uganda has made significant progress.”

She pointed out that Uganda has introduced several key legal frameworks to combat discrimination, such as the Domestic Violence Act, the Female Genital Mutilation Act, the Succession Act, and the Trafficking in Persons Act. These laws aim to provide greater access to justice for women and ensure their rights are protected. Amongi also acknowledged that affirmative action has led to increased representation of women in leadership roles, giving them a stronger voice in decision-making processes.

Amongi highlighted that the government has established institutions like the Gender and Children Desks within the Uganda Police Force, which provide safe spaces for women to report violence and seek help.

“Additionally, Uganda’s Justice, Law, and Order Sector (JLOS) has made strides, including the development of gender-sensitive justice frameworks, specialized Gender-Based Violence (GBV) courts, a focal point Judge for GBV cases, and legal aid initiatives,” she added.

She also emphasized the creation of the Gender, Children, and Sexual Offences Department at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions as a testament to Uganda’s commitment to addressing these critical issues. The introduction of Family and Children Courts has brought gender-sensitive and child-friendly procedures that prioritize the needs and rights of survivors.

“The foundation we’ve built through institutional advancements and legal protections creates a framework for continued progress,” she said, “fostering gender-sensitive systems, enhancing legal aid, and employing technology to streamline processes.”

In her address, Amongi also discussed the importance of reshaping cultural norms through constitutional reforms and affirmative action policies, which have empowered women and banned harmful practices. Traditional leaders have been engaged to challenge discriminatory customs.

Amongi credited the political will of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for these advancements, noting that 45% of Uganda’s cabinet positions are held by women, including the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Speaker of Parliament, all of whom are women.

She also highlighted that women’s representation in Parliament stands at 34%, with 45% representation at the local government level. These women have played a pivotal role in advancing the empowerment of women in Uganda.