NAMIREMBE– Church of Uganda, with support from Dan Church Aid (DCA) has today joined the global celebration of International Women’s Day with an event titled “Men Leading the Way in the Kitchen” at the Provincial Secretariat in Namirembe.
This initiative saw men take the lead in preparing and serving meals, symbolizing a bold step toward breaking societal stereotypes that limit the roles of men and women in homes and communities.
The retired Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira, represented the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by his wife, Maama Faith Luwalira.
“The Word of God teaches us that we are all created in His image (Genesis 1:27), equal in His eyes and bound by His love. The call for equity and justice is a Christian mandate that resonates deeply with our faith. It is a call to see each other as God sees us, to celebrate our unique strengths, and to work hand-in-hand in fulfilling His purpose for our lives,” Bishop Luwalira said.
He emphasized the Church’s commitment to addressing gender injustices and fostering a culture where women and girls are respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
“As religious leaders, we must confront these injustices head-on and work tirelessly to dismantle the systems that perpetuate them. We are called to champion gender equality, to challenge harmful norms and stereotypes, and to create environments where women are respected, valued, and empowered to thrive,” he added.
On behalf of the Church of Uganda, Bishop Luwalira committed to utilizing faith spaces to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV). This includes denouncing the culture of silence, encouraging survivors to report cases of GBV, providing counseling and support through the Church’s structures, and fostering safe spaces for both men and women.
The Church also pledged to mentor the boy child from an early age to respect and value girls as equals while using social and mainstream media to advocate for the rights and empowerment of women and girls to achieve sustainable gender justice.
Rev. Canon William Ongeng, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, applauded the men participating in domestic work, describing their involvement in the kitchen as a significant act that challenges long-held gender roles.
“The act of men stepping into the kitchen may seem simple, but its implications are profound. It challenges the notion that caregiving and domestic responsibilities are solely the domain of women. By embracing these roles, men demonstrate love and respect for their families while setting a powerful example for the next generation,” Rev. Canon Ongeng said.
Ms. Josephine Ninsiima, the Acting Director of Household and Community Transformation, called for greater collaboration between stakeholders to advance gender justice.
“I call upon the government, NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations to collaborate with the Church in implementing economic empowerment programs and other initiatives tailored to address the unique needs of women, girls, men, and boys, especially those from marginalized communities and rural areas. The Church’s well-organized structure reaches the grassroots, making it an essential partner in addressing these challenges,” she said.
She added, “I appeal to those in positions of authority—including government officials and parliamentarians—to initiate, sponsor, and support laws addressing gender-based violence, discrimination, and economic inequality. By advocating for these legal frameworks, we can protect the rights of women and girls, advance gender justice, and build a more equitable and just society.”
Augustine Enyipu, the Head of Programs at Dan Church Aid, who represented the Country Director, commended the Church for its role in advocating for gender and social justice. He emphasized the importance of collective action in dismantling these barriers.
“This initiative reflects our collective responsibility to create supportive environments where every member of the family can thrive. By fostering partnerships and promoting gender justice, we can create a society where everyone is valued and empowered,” Enyipu said.
Mrs. Carolyn Kikoyo, the Mothers’ Union President of the Diocese of Kampala, highlighted the enduring contributions of women throughout history while acknowledging the barriers they continue to face.
“Throughout history, women have played pivotal roles in nurturing families, fostering compassion, and promoting justice. Yet, despite their immense talents and capabilities, women still encounter discrimination, violence, and unequal opportunities that prevent them from realizing their full potential and contributing fully to society,” Mrs. Kikoyo said.
She added, “To the men here today, I commend you for your courage and leadership. To the women, I honor your resilience and strength. And to all of us, I urge that we continue to work together, to listen, to learn, and to act. Let us accelerate our efforts to create a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear, where their voices are heard, and where their potential is fully realized.”
