KAMPALA- In Uganda, women and girls are more vulnerable to the men and boys and this has affected gravely their social and economic inclusion in some communities especially the rural and urban poor settings.
This is majorly due the different cultures, norms and traditions that are persistent in the areas we work and live in.
However, there are strides that are being taken and gradually we shall get there with the various combined efforts to make it work for all of us.
One of the avenues that are taken is feminism and literature and Alliance Francaise de Kampala (AFK) together with its partners are spear heading this with workshops and Conferences with women to change the narrative.
Speaking at the media launch hosted at Alliance de Kampala offices, Laure Ginestet, coordinator, “feminism and literature” project and principal librarian said that the program is targeted to have a series of discussions on East Africa feminist literature tailored to the real Ugandan Community and will focus on Afro- feminism (April 6-7), Sexist and Sexual Violence (May 4- 5) and Health and Sex Education (June 1-2).
“I’m excited to lead the “Feminism and Literature” program and at the heart of these events, we shall be able to shed more light on that profound connection between action and words underscoring the power of the latter to work beyond our causes and interests”. Said Laure
She also pointed out that they are going to work with celebrated Poets such as Irene Mutuzo because they believe lyricism is much more than words strung together on a page but rather a form of expression that erects a passionate barrier, protecting what lives within them while exalting it.
The Director AFK, Eric Touze explained that he has worked in various countries such as Pakistan, Ghana and others and their associations of feminism is quite strong and active than those in Uganda, adding that as AFK they are concerned with the matters of equality and inclusion because it is natural to develop such projects that connect to their values.
Touze stressed that it always their commitment to participate in debates on ideas that are shaking the world and they are always part and offer platforms for societal, environmental themes, culture and many as safe places for contemporary ideas.
Additionally, Stephen Kateregga, from AFK reiterated that women are facing very many challenges and usually such movements that take place help them to amplify on various matters affecting them and remedies on how to tackle them.
Some of the partners taking part in this will be FEMRITE, Minority Africa, UN Women, Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), Avid Uganda and others.
