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Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU) 2nd edition of the IMARA Girls Festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Kati Kati Grounds, Kampala.
This vibrant festival is a celebration of young women’s voices, innovation, and creativity. It will be held to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child with the theme “Invest In Her, Unleash Her Potential.
It brings together key actors from various sectors to celebrate, recognize, and inspire. It showcases the achievements of women and girls, highlighting their role in breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes, while also proposing actionable solutions to socio-economic issues at different societal levels.
The IMARA Girls Festival also seeks to raise awareness and funds to support the establishment of the IMARA Women’s Centre (IWC), an initiative by FOWODE to anchor the advancement of women’s rights in Uganda. The IWC will serve as a hub for women’s and girl’s independent organizing and a practical base to advance the struggle for gender equality. It will offer a space for reflection, learning, networking, nurturing, healing, and self-care, while promoting women’s creativity and innovation.
“We firmly believe that investing in the potential of girls is an investment in the future of our communities. Through our feminist work, we are committed to investing in girls’ leadership and supporting efforts to keep them in school,” the organisers said in a statement.
“Recognizing that girls are often at risk of gender-based violence, the Centre will be dedicated to addressing these issues and promoting overall wellness. Furthermore, the Centre believes in fostering girls’ innovation and participation in STEM, reinforcing its commitment to providing incubation hubs and facilities to support these endeavors.”
FOWODE and RAHU said they are committed to the empowerment of all women and girls and the achievement of gender equality. “We encourage families, friends, and community members of all ages to attend this event and support us as we work towards an equal future,” they said in a statement.
The Imara Girls Festival is a free event. Proceeds from sponsorships, exhibition fees, and donations will make a significant contribution towards the establishment of the Imara Women’s Centre in Kasangati.
Activities October 12th
• Conversational Engagements: Under the theme “Invest in Her, Unleash Her Potential,” attendees will gain insights from seasoned leaders, mentors, and role models on the unique challenges young girls experience and offer practical solutions. These distinguished speakers will share their experiences and wisdom to inspire girls to dream big and pursue their goals.
• Peer Learning Sessions: Participants will engage in workshops led by inspiring youth leaders (peer educators) on various relevant topics like Gender-Based Violence, Menstrual Hygiene Management and restrictive gender norms. The sessions will have interactive discussions of strategies to address the challenges involved.
• Exhibitions: The event will feature unique products from local small and mid-sized companies, as well as services from civil society organizations, private sector actors, and industries such as health, banking, and entrepreneurship.
• Live Performances: Exciting performances by Ugandan renowned artists.
