Rubingo women sensitized on financial and property rights

BY MOLLY KAMAKUNE

Women in  Rubingo Ward, Fort Portal City, were recently sensitized on their rights to own property in a session led by the Voice of Toro (VOT) gender desk in collaboration with FIDA Uganda. The initiative aimed to empower women to understand their legal rights and enhance their financial independence.

Ms Lenah Nadunga, a lawyer from FIDA Uganda, said there is a persistent issue of men assuming entitlement over property, including land, houses, and even children.

Ms. Naddunga Lennah speaks to Rubingo women.

She pointed out that women, particularly those in cohabiting relationships, often find themselves empty-handed during separation due to a lack of legal documentation.

Ms Nadunga said all the women need to secure proof of ownership whenever they enter marriage even when they are still cohabiting, such as joint names on purchase receipts and agreements.

“We waste a lot of time living with men who we are not married to legally. Even if you’ve worked hard to develop the man, no law will rule in your favor unless you have legal evidence of ownership,” Nadunga said.

She also noted that the desire for luxurious weddings often prevents couples from legalizing their marriages, which complicates property claims in case of separation.

A Journey to financial freedom

Ms Grace Birungi Aliireake, a resident of Rubingo Ward and member of the Rubingo Women Enterprises group, said she has found the financial independence she always dreamed of, gaining control over her decisions and resources.

“Initially, I was in a comfort zone, relying on my husband for money. But there were times I needed money urgently, and he would delay or dictate how and when I should use it, this left me powerless, unable to make decisions for myself. I would often miss out on my plans because the money wasn’t mine to control.”

Her life took a turn when she started earning income by selling soap and books she made through the group.

Ms. Birungi with her colleagues making her books.

“Now, after selling my products, Iam also part of the decisions about what my family eats, where my children go to school, when we bought land, both my name and his name were put on the agreement, Before, all these decisions were dependent on my husband’s desires,”

Similarly, Ms Night Mugambwa, another woman from Rubingo, said, “I was raised by a single mother who provided everything for us. But after I got married, I found myself fully dependent on my husband. He provided for me, our children, and even his extended family, but it was often not enough, and I watched him struggle to carry the burden alone,”

Night recalled that sometimes her children would ask for something as small as a piece of bread, and she couldn’t afford it.

“I felt terrible, wondering why I couldn’t provide for them like my mother did for me.” Determined to change her situation, she began weaving baskets and never looked back. Now, I can afford to give my children what they need. My husband is very proud of me and supports me every step of the way,”

VOT Gender Desk applauded for empowering women

Rubingo Ward woman councilor, Ms Rose Nyakaisiki, commended the Voice of Toro (VOT) gender desk for empowering women through initiatives like Her Story, an intentional radio program that airs content that deliberately advances women rights and  shares inspirational success stories to motivate women into growth and freedom.

“The program encourages us to stay focused on our goals and reminds us that we, too, can achieve success and have rights” Nyakaisiki said.

She also called on VOT to assist in marketing the women’s products, stating that financial security would not only empower women but also reduce instances of domestic violence. “When women have the financial means to support their families, it leads to greater stability at home.”

Ms Betty Mujungu, the team leader of the Voice Of Toro (VOT) gender desk, encouraged women to remain determined despite the challenges of starting a business with limited capital.

“It’s never easy at the beginning, but persistence is key. Don’t give up, no matter the obstacles because when you have your own money, you have the power to choose your path and create the future u want,” she said.