The first thing that catches your eye at the Buganda Women Convention is the colour. Thousands of women, dressed in brown Gomesi and cream sashes, fill the venue with a sense of pride and purpose. Around them are women from different faiths, professions and communities, each wearing an outfit that reflects their identity. Yet despite the diversity, there is a visible sense of unity. For many participants, this annual gathering has become a platform for learning, networking and empowerment. As a journalist covering Buganda Kingdom affairs, I attended the convention for the first time in 2023. What I initially considered as another assignment on my reporting schedule quickly became an eye-opening experience that changed how I viewed women’s leadership, entrepreneurship and community development.
The excitement that greets the arrival of the Nnaabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda, immediately reveals the significance of the convention. Women rise to their feet, singing and waving handkerchiefs in celebration. Their enthusiasm reflects the admiration they have for a woman many regard as a mentor and role model. Watching thousands of women gathered under one roof, I realised that the convention is not merely an annual event. It is a movement that continues to inspire women to pursue opportunities, support one another and contribute to development.
A platform for empowerment
What stood out during my first convention was the diversity of participants. Entrepreneurs sat alongside farmers. Teachers exchanged ideas with market vendors. Community leaders interacted with young women beginning their careers. The gathering served as a reminder of the important role women play in Uganda’s social and economic transformation.
One notable aspect of the convention is the support it receives from male leaders within the kingdom. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has consistently used the platform to encourage women to embrace leadership, entrepreneurship and active participation in development. His message has remained consistent over the years.
“When women are empowered, families, communities and society benefit,” Mayiga has repeatedly emphasised during convention engagements.
Beyond speeches, the convention focuses on practical solutions that women can apply in their daily lives. Discussions centre on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, savings, agriculture, technology and wealth creation. The message is simple, economic independence matters.
Seeing the impact
Over the years, I have listened to numerous testimonies from women whose lives have changed after participating in the convention. Some have established small businesses after receiving encouragement and support from family members. Others have joined savings groups and cooperatives, enabling them to access capital and invest in income-generating activities.
Many have expanded farming enterprises, ventured into retail trade, tailoring and food processing, while others have strengthened their leadership roles within their communities. Their stories demonstrate how access to knowledge, mentorship and networks can create opportunities for transformation.
Celebrating 10 years
During celebrations marking the convention’s 10th anniversary, the Nnaabagereka reflected on the journey that led to its establishment. She explained that although Buganda previously had a general convention, there was no dedicated platform focused specifically on women’s issues.
“Before, there was Buganda Convention, but it would sometimes come after long intervals. Together with Christine Mugerwa, we discussed the need for a women’s convention and agreed to establish one. Today, we are celebrating 10 years,” Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda said.
The initiative was spearheaded by women leaders including Sarah Nkonge Muwonge, Hajati Mariam Nkalubo and others who believed women needed a stronger voice and organised platform within the kingdom. Looking back, the Nnaabagereka acknowledged that the journey was not easy.
“We remember where we started from when things were not easy, but we remained hopeful. The current status of the Buganda Women Convention shows that initiatives built on unity and purpose can be promoted and protected,” she said.
Personal reflection
After attending the convention over the years, I have come to understand why it continues to attract thousands of women. I learnt that this gathering has grown beyond an annual meeting. For many of us, it is now a learning centre, a networking hub, and a mentorship platform all in one. I saw that successful women in business, leadership, and community development regularly return to share their experiences, which has created a culture of peer learning and support. This stressed to me that my breakthrough can become a bridge for someone else.
The Nnaabagereka challenged me directly: If I am to spearhead change in business, agriculture, and the environment, I must start from my own home. I must become a good example and strengthen cooperation with my family members first. I cannot lead change outside if I have not modelled it inside my own house.
The convention’s financial literacy programme encouraged me to strengthen my financial management skills, embrace technology, and actively identify new market opportunities. My good intentions will not feed my family or grow my business without financial literacy.
On health and environmental conservation, the message was clear to me: “We must ensure the trees we plant are protected and allowed to grow.” I learnt that restoration requires ongoing care, not just ceremonial planting. Start the work and then stay for the maintenance.
Sarah Nkonge Muwonge, one of the convention’s pioneers, reminded me that as generations change, more women are coming on board with purpose. I am one of them. I am here to improve my income, develop my community, and transform my country.
Beyond the colourful attire, songs and celebrations lies a powerful platform that equips women with knowledge, confidence and practical skills.
For me, the Buganda Women Convention has been more than an event to cover. It has been a lesson in the power of collective action, mentorship and leadership. As the convention enters its second decade, its message remains clear; when women are equipped with opportunities, skills and support, they become powerful agents of change in their homes, communities and the nation.