The Queen of Buganda, Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda, has called on the Ugandan government to increase funding for women-led initiatives, arguing that gender-focused investment is key to driving the country’s economic growth.
Speaking at the 9th Buganda Women’s Conference held Friday at the Lubiri Palace in Kampala, the Nnaabagereka said financial exclusion and limited access to business skills continue to hinder women’s economic progress across Uganda.
“If we are to achieve our national goals, we need financial support from all sectors, especially the government—so that women can improve their livelihoods and income status,” she told participants.
The Queen’s remarks come amid persistent challenges for women in Uganda’s economy.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), women account for 51% of the population, but only 27% own land, and fewer than 15% of women-led businesses survive beyond their first year, largely due to limited access to capital and training.
“Many women have the courage to start small businesses, but they collapse within a year. Most lack start-up capital and financial literacy,” the Queen said, urging the government to expand grant-based financing.
“Loans aren’t always realistic for first-time entrepreneurs,” she added. “We need grants and soft loans payable in instalments.”
She also called on men to play a supportive role in women’s economic participation.
“Women cannot flourish without the support of men. I urge husbands, brothers and fathers to walk this journey with the women in their lives.”
The Queen also stressed the importance of peer mentorship and community-based training to help women build sustainable enterprises.
The conference, themed “Supporting Women’s Initiatives for Better Development,” brought together women from various regions, faith-based groups, Buganda Kingdom ministers, political leaders, and cultural figures.
The event aimed to celebrate and promote women-led initiatives as key drivers of community development within the Kingdom.