A delegation from Uganda's Forum for Democratic Change is participating in the inaugural Democracy Union of Africa Women's Conference in Namibia. The conference, held at the Windhoek Country Club Resort from October 23 to 28, 2026, brings together women political leaders from across Africa. They are discussing ways to strengthen women's leadership and influence in political decision-making. The event has attracted over 320 participants under the theme "Women Working Together for Political Power, Progress and Prosperity."
The conference was officially opened by DUA Chairperson Louisa Atta-Agyemang. Former Ghanaian Second Lady Samira R. Bawumia delivered the keynote address as Special Guest of Honour. Bawumia chairs the Samira Empowerment and Humanitarian Projects and the Africa Women and Children Conference. She challenged women leaders to strengthen women's political leadership and expand their influence across Africa.
The discussions focus on how women's participation in political parties can translate into meaningful authority, influence, and decision-making power. There are also efforts to build stronger democratic networks across the continent. The FDC delegation comprises Deputy President Margaret Wokuri Madanda, National Vice Chairperson Judith Franca Akello, and National Women's League Chairperson Kisakye Agnes Marvis.
The FDC delegation participated in a high-level panel examining the place of women in political leadership. The panel discussed challenges of moving beyond representation to exercising real power within political parties and democratic institutions. The DUA Women's Wing brings together over 25 centre-right political parties from across Africa, with Uganda's FDC among its members in good standing.
The conference is hosted by Namibia's opposition Popular Democratic Movement under the leadership of McHenry Venaani. The event has support from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and the International Democracy Union. The gathering provides a platform for women politicians to exchange experiences and strengthen cross-border partnerships.
The conference also explores strategies for advancing women's participation in political leadership and democratic governance across Africa. The platform allows women politicians to share their experiences and build partnerships. This can help in promoting women's leadership and influence in political decision-making.
The Democracy Union of Africa Women's Conference aims to promote women's participation in politics. The event provides an opportunity for women leaders to discuss challenges and strategies for advancing women's leadership. The conference also fosters collaboration and partnerships among women politicians from across Africa.
Key points
- The FDC delegation participates in a high-level panel discussion on women's leadership.
- The conference aims to strengthen women's leadership and influence in political decision-making.
- Over 320 participants from across Africa attend the Democracy Union of Africa Women's Conference.
