“CELEBRATING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMENT” 8TH MATCH THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Each year around the world, International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8 (throughout March) to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Agago Local Government in conjunction with development partners and women in Agago district with pleasure honored and joined the world in celebrating of women’s day on 8th March 2013 at Lapono Sub County Agago District. Over 1000 Women, men, youth and children from all the Sub Counties of Agago District attended the function. The function begun with a joyful matching of women and men at around 11:00 am. The 30 minutes drizzle was considered a blessing on such a day as the weather has been very hot since January 2013.Among the invited guests were; Hon Member of Parliament & Woman Member of Parliament, RDC Agago District), CAO, Councillors, local leaders and development partners in the district. The Days theme "The Gender Agenda: Connecting Grass root Women to Development” suited the rural women of Agago District. Did you know that..? 60% of the world’s work falls on women’s shoulders, yet they earn 10% of the world’s income. If women were given the same level of access to resources that men have, they could increase yields on their farms by 20-30%. There is therefore need to bridge the gap by empowering women and building their capacity in sustainable development skills. The function was graced with educative songs and drama from various women and men groups highlighting the time of insurgency and the current peace/security that has enabled them to go back home and work (farming). They thanked the government and development partners for all the programs being implemented in Agago district that are aimed at improving access to health, water, sanitation, roads, VSLA, improved farming techniques and inputs among others. The Agago district women councilors expressed concern for the limited funding received towards implementation of women related activities. The poor medical services with limited/no medical personnel and medicine coupled with poor transport has caused many death including mothers who die while giving birth. Men were urged to embrace the women’s day and support women in their initiatives. Much as there noted achievements among women such as equal rights to education, work, leadership, and business among others, consistent domestic violence, early school drop out by girl child and early marriages are persisting in Agago district. This is in addition to limited ownership of assets by majority of women in the district. While celebrating the past and present achievements, I call upon the government and all stakeholders to continue planning for the future by empowering rural women to fully participate in sustainable development. We must also act jointly to prevent violence against women and children. Side events included free counseling and testing for HIV that attracted many youth, men and women during the IWD celebration.