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By Naome Namusoke/ KMA updates
Kampala, Uganda – The Women of Uganda Network (UWONET) have convened a national dialogue in Kampala, aimed at confronting and challenging discriminatory laws that hinder freedom of expression and access to information, particularly among women in marginalized communities. The high-level engagement has brought together key stakeholders from civil society, government institutions, digital rights organizations, and the media to advocate for inclusive legal reforms and stronger enforcement of existing protections.
Founded in 2000, UWONET has remained a vanguard of women’s digital rights advocacy in Uganda. For over two decades, the organization has actively spotlighted the gendered impact of repressive legal frameworks, especially on rural women, women with disabilities, and elderly women—groups often excluded from digital discourse and access to life-changing information.
Sandra Aceng, Executive Director of UWONET, who has delivered a powerful address underscoring the urgency of addressing structural barriers and digital gender-based violence.
“Women, especially those in marginalized communities, face layers of exclusion. From online harassment to lack of infrastructure and digital literacy, the system continues to fail them. It is time to address these injustices with practical, inclusive policies,” Aceng stated.
According to the 2022 Uganda Communications Commission report cited during the event, 63% of rural women lack access to ICT tools. Meanwhile, 41% of urban women reported experiencing online harassment—highlighting the digital gender divide and the urgent need for interventions that protect and empower all women, regardless of their location or status.
Voices from Across the Spectrum
Yasmin Ahmed from the FemTech Law Initiative has echoed calls for legal reforms that match the evolving digital landscape.
“We cannot afford to operate under outdated laws that do not speak to the digital realities of 2025. The legal system must reflect modern communication modes and the needs of every Ugandan, especially women,” she urged.
Media representation has been another focal point of the dialogue. Serina Nagujja, Executive Director of NSTV Online, voiced concerns over the performance of female Members of Parliament, noting a disconnect between political agendas and the pressing needs of women.
“Too many of our female leaders have prioritized political survival over women’s rights. We need them to be our voice, especially in addressing digital violence and access to information,” she emphasized.
Mary Rose Kemigisha of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) reiterated that freedom of expression is a constitutional right—but one that is not equitably enjoyed.
“Yes, freedom of expression is enshrined in our Constitution. But we must admit, both women and men are being left behind in digital spaces. Women face targeted violence, while many men—especially older ones—lack the tools and knowledge to engage. We need a rights-based, inclusive approach,” Kemigisha added.
Brenda Namata, Communications Officer at Policy Uganda, raised the alarm on a growing generational gap in tech literacy and usage. As Uganda moves toward its Vision 2040 target of becoming a knowledge-based economy, older populations—particularly elderly women—are being excluded from the digital future.
“We must bridge this generational digital divide. As AI and new technologies become mainstream, we risk marginalizing the elderly unless targeted interventions are introduced,” Namata warned.
The dialogue concluded with a unified call for the review and implementation of laws that promote digital inclusion and protect freedom of expression for all. Participants urged the government to work hand-in-hand with civil society and tech stakeholders to ensure that no one especially women in vulnerable communities is left behind in the digital era.
As Uganda continues its journey toward digital transformation, today’s national dialogue stands as a timely and critical reminder: meaningful progress requires intentional inclusion, equitable enforcement, and unwavering advocacy for human rights.
About UWONET:
The Women of Uganda Network (UWONET) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing women’s rights and promoting access to digital technologies for all women in Uganda. Through advocacy, research, and partnerships, UWONET works to ensure women’s voices are heard and their rights protected in both physical and digital spaces.