Nakapiripirit Women Councillors Boost Leadership Skills

Nakapiripirit District is set to see improved local governance following a three-day leadership training for its women councillors. The program, attended by fifteen councillors, the District Clerk, and the Speaker, was designed to equip participants with enhanced skills in key areas of public service.

The training focused on strengthening women’s capacity in accountability, understanding legislative processes, promoting gender-responsive governance, and fostering inclusive decision-making within the district. Organizers highlighted the importance of such initiatives in ensuring women’s priorities are reflected in development plans and budgets.

The capacity-building effort was spearheaded by the Women Integrated Development and Empowerment Agency (WIDEA) in collaboration with the Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE). This initiative received financial backing from international partners including the Danish Embassy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the Embassy of Ireland.

Susan Talep, Executive Director of WIDEA, emphasized that the training aimed to bolster women-led accountability for gender-responsive service delivery and improve overall leadership and advocacy skills among the councillors. She encouraged the participants to embrace continuous learning and apply their newfound knowledge to their roles.

Dorothy Chegem, FOWODE’s Karamoja Regional Project Coordinator, noted that many attendees were newly elected officials who needed orientation on their legislative and oversight duties. The training covered practical aspects such as moving motions, formulating ordinances, and executing oversight responsibilities effectively. Chegem stressed that empowering women leaders is crucial for their communities’ effective representation and participation in decision-making.

Participants reported significant benefits, with Deputy Speaker Agnes Lokure highlighting the formation of a women councillors’ caucus to collectively address issues affecting women. Councillor Agnes Korobe underscored the importance of teamwork in tackling community challenges as a key takeaway.

Organizers expressed optimism that this training will lead to more inclusive planning, budgeting, and legislation, ultimately improving service delivery in Nakapiripirit District.

Source: Nile Post