First Lady Launches Women in Construction Chapter, Calls for Purpose-Driven Inclusion

First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon Janet Kataaha Museveni, has launched the Women in Construction – Uganda Chapter, marking what she described as a “historic step” in acknowledging and advancing the role of women in shaping Uganda’s infrastructure and national development.

Speaking during the inaugural Women in Construction Symposium 2025, Mrs Museveni emphasized that empowering women in the construction and infrastructure sectors is not just about equality, but about unlocking the country’s full development potential.

“This marks a historic step in recognizing the vital role women play in shaping Uganda’s infrastructure and national development,” she said. “When I joined the education sector nearly nine years ago, I witnessed firsthand the strength of women in leadership.”

She recalled the success of a dedicated team of young women who played a critical role in overcoming delays and delivering 145 primary schools. “Competence and integrity truly make all the difference,” she noted.

Education and Infrastructure Reforms Driving Inclusion

Mrs Museveni pointed to ongoing government efforts to expand educational infrastructure and level the playing field for women in construction-related fields. She cited the construction of 259 Seed Secondary Schools, with 192 already completed or nearing completion, as a testament to the government’s commitment to accessible education for all.

Significantly, she highlighted a 150% increase in female enrollment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs since education sector reforms were introduced in 2019.

“This is a strong indicator of changing tides, but we must go further,” she said. “We remain committed to pushing this percentage beyond 30%. To do so, we must change mindsets—at home, in society, and the workplace.”

Purpose Not Pity

While celebrating the achievements, Mrs. Museveni urged women in construction to be guided by purpose rather than pity. She stressed that women do not need charity but opportunities, support, and a belief in their ability to lead and build.

“As we launch this chapter, let purpose—not pity—guide your path,” she said. “May God empower you to build not just infrastructure but a brighter future.”

The launch of the Women in Construction – Uganda Chapter is expected to provide a platform for female professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and advocates in the construction and engineering sectors to network, share knowledge, and influence policy.

A National Shift Toward Inclusive Development

The initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader development goals, including Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV, which emphasize inclusive growth and gender-responsive planning. The Ministry of Education and Sports has also adopted policies encouraging gender equality in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

Mrs Museveni’s remarks come at a time when female representation in construction remains low but is showing positive trends. The Uganda National Bureau of Statistics estimates that women still make up less than 20% of the construction workforce, though this number is steadily rising with more targeted government and private sector initiatives.