The First Lady, Janet Kataaha Museveni, has called on women across the country to unite in prayer ahead of the January 15 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
While addressing a gathering of women at Kololo National Ceremonial Grounds, Mrs Museveni urged voters to commit themselves to daily prayers at 5:00 a.m. for peace and victory for the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
She was speaking to women mobilized under a pressure group known as All Women for Museveni, which is campaigning for the NRM presidential candidate, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The group is headed by Adrine Kobusingye, the Chairperson of the NRM Women’s League.
Janet Museveni emphasized the power of prayer as the country heads to the polls next Thursday.
“We are the cement that fortifies the house of Uganda. If we pray, if we say no to violence, then there will be no violence. If we remain committed to peace, our victory will be assured,” she said.
Her call for prayer and peace comes as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, widely viewed as a critical test for the NRM’s continued leadership, with President Museveni seeking to extend his rule beyond 40 years in power.
“Let us pray for peace and victory for NRM, and may God bless our efforts in this election year,” she added.
The First Lady also urged women to use their influence to caution the youth against violence, noting that those who incite unrest often do so for selfish political interests while keeping their own families safe.
Janet Museveni expressed appreciation for the dedication and continued support of Ugandan women, whom she said have consistently been at the forefront of backing the NRM government.
She thanked the leadership of the NRM National Women’s League, including Adrine Kobusingye, for organizing the event.
“I salute you for your commitment to the NRM leadership, and I bring you the gratitude of His Excellency the President,” Mrs Museveni said.
She added that President Museveni deeply values the love and confidence women continue to place in his leadership.
Reflecting on Uganda’s journey since the NRM came to power in 1986, Janet Museveni acknowledged significant progress, particularly in the empowerment of women.
“Before 1986, this country was full of fear and instability, with very few opportunities for women to influence public life. But thanks to the NRM leadership, things have changed,” she noted.
She pointed to the presence of women in top leadership positions—such as Vice President, Prime Minister, and Speaker of Parliament—as evidence of the strides made in women’s political empowerment.
“In every sector, women are excelling. Women are not only part of decision-making processes; they are leading and contributing meaningfully to the development of this country.”
The First Lady, who is also the Minister for Education and Sports, commended the NRM government’s economic empowerment initiatives for women, including the Emyooga Programme and the Parish Development Model, which have enabled millions of women to access finance, markets, and skills training.
She encouraged women to aim even higher, proposing the establishment of a women’s bank to further enhance financial independence.
Janet Museveni also called on Ugandans to exercise their right to vote and elect leaders of integrity, reminding them that every vote counts in shaping the future governance of the nation.
Pastor Jessica Kayanja, the Executive Director of Girl Power, credited the First Family for supporting the initiative, which has empowered many women across the country.
NRM Women’s League Chairperson Adrine Kobusingye highlighted milestones that have enabled women to work freely, hold senior offices, access improved health services, and thrive in a peaceful environment.
The event was also graced by Vice President Retired Major Jessica Alupo and the State Minister for Culture, Peace Mutuuzo, who rallied women to turn up in large numbers and vote for President Museveni and other NRM candidates.
NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja Nsereko commended the President for pro-women policies, including affirmative action points for girls entering university, and urged women to continue supporting President Museveni in the forthcoming elections.
Several women at the gathering shared testimonies of how NRM government programmes have helped them lift themselves out of poverty.
