Situation Analysis of Women in the Ugandan Political Economy

A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since the emergence of the concept of a women's movement almost two decades ago. As a direct response to the oppression of African women within the continent, women in development and later gender and development principles were founded on the promotion of dignity, self-respect, socio-economic freedom, independence and women's emancipation. However, after 20 years of the development of the concept, in most of the region, the achievements appear insignificant. This paper focuses on the marginalisation of African women in general and Ugandan woman in particular in the quest for the advancement of the African people. It attempts to bring to the fore the plight of the Ugandan woman and the latent variables that engender and perpetuate the present situation. Emphasis is mainly placed on the role of culture in the gender question in as much as it hinders the progress of women. It is the contention of the author that the situation of the Ugandan woman presents a classic human contradiction. The Ugandan woman is deprived and impoverished as against the backdrop of her immense contribution – actual and potential – to the socio-economic development of the country. Unless critical and pertinent gender issues are addressed, it may not be possible to harness the development process in Uganda. Eastern Africa Social Science Research Review (EASSRR) Vol. XVII No. 1 January 2001, pp. 15-3