As the country is grappling with the hostile effects of climate change, from unreliable weather patterns to the increased prevalence of vector-borne diseases, health activists have been urged to focus on issues affecting women like poverty and poor health systems.
“The impacts of climate change on women are highlighted in situations of poverty and assigned gender roles, responsibilities, and cultural norms. Yet, despite these challenges, Ugandan women have shown incredible resilience, resourcefulness, and strength in the face of adversity,” Hanifa Kawooya, the State Minister for Health in charge of General Duties said.
She said, women have become the backbone of our nation, nurturing families, driving economic growth, and advocating for change in their communities.
Kawooya was addressing participants at the Pathfinder Uganda Partnership Day 2024 held in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, under the theme: ‘women-led health and climate resilience’ at Sheraton hotel, in Kampala.
Kawooya hailed organizations like Pathfinder Uganda for their commitment to women’s health and empowerment in Uganda where women encouraged to observe heathy timing and spacing of pregnancies (family planning).
“In the early 1990’s they played a critical role in ensuring we fight against the HIV pandemic through home-based care initiatives. They have also continued to support adolescents and young women in other areas of economic empowerment and tackling the climate component,” she said.
Kawooya said that since women are the backbone of the nation, its important to empower them for both the well-being and economic development of the country.
The Pathfinder Country Director Ritahwadds, said they promote a multi-sectoral and systems-strengthening approach working with the government and private sector to ensure that the approaches put in place are sustainable beyond projects timelines .
“Women are forces of change and therefore, should be supported to be in the driver’s seat. There is urgent need for deliberate action to address climate change having the vulnerable populations including women and youths at the forefront,” she emphasized .
President Lydia Saloucou advised Pathfinder to be committed in working together with Ministry of health and embrace new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
“Recognizing the critical role that women play in building sustainable communities and addressing the challenges of climate change, we celebrate their leadership and resilience in the face of adversity,” she said.
