Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Parliamentary Women’s Association (UWOPA) has organized a training session for parliamentary journalists to enhance their reporting on the Marriage Bill.
Margaret Rwabushaija, Workers MP, made the opening remarks, emphasizing that the bill’s purpose is to benefit all Ugandans, not just a specific group.
“On behalf of the mover of the bill, we want to ask you to report facts to demystify the negative perceptions on the bill because the public believes a lot in the media,” Rwabushaija said.
Jordana Wamboga, Programs Manager of Uganda Community Based Organization for women and girls (UCOBAC), highlighted the importance of the training.
“Training journalists is key on this bill because you will be informing the public from an informed point of view. You will also help us break the misconceptions and report objectively on the bill, especially the negative backlash from social media,” Wamboga added.
Uganda has made significant progress, and stakeholders are hopeful the bill will become law.
Ritah Kemigisa, Communication Officer of Stand for Her Land campaign, a global initiative strengthening women’s land and rights, also addressed the training.
The event, held at Esella Hotel in Najjera, Wakiso district, was organized by UWOPA in conjunction with UCOBAC and funded by Stand for Her Land Campaign.
Ethel Naluyima, Wakiso district woman MP, closed the training, appealing to those spreading misinformation about the bill to stop.
“The Marriage bill will save women in abusive relationships,” Naluyima emphasized. “MPs need to be involved in the engagement because they interface with the electorates on the ground.”
Journalists praised the facilitators for the hands-on training, expressing commitment to supporting the bill’s success.
