The Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Hon. Mariam Wangadya, has taken the Commission's human rights awareness campaign directly to the public at the ongoing Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) exhibition in Lugogo, Kampala. Wangadya urged Ugandans to understand their rights, speak out against violations, and hold on to the principle that every person deserves justice and protection under the law. Her interaction with the public provided an opportunity for citizens to seek clarification on their rights and understand how the Commission can intervene when those rights are violated.
Wangadya spent Friday morning at the Commission's exhibition stall, personally engaging visitors in discussions about human rights, answering questions, and listening to concerns affecting communities across the country. The UHRC established its stall at the exhibition on Friday, October 2, 2026, and has since been using the platform to educate the public about its mandate and showcase the services available to Ugandans. Visitors have been receiving Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, annual reports, and special reports intended to improve their understanding of the Commission's work and the broader human rights environment in Uganda.
Wangadya said she was encouraged by the enthusiasm demonstrated by visitors, explaining that the conversations had enabled the Commission to provide answers while also receiving valuable feedback from the people it serves. The discussions revealed growing interest in how human rights education can be extended beyond exhibitions and formal institutional programmes to reach schools, learning institutions, and local communities. Some visitors wanted to understand how they could begin promoting human rights awareness in their own schools, institutions, and villages.
The rights of the boy child emerged as one of the issues raised during the engagement, providing an opportunity to discuss the need for human rights protection to address the experiences of different groups in society and ensure that the rights of every child receive appropriate attention. Another major issue was the right to a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence, particularly in relation to ongoing anti-corruption operations involving the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balam Barugahara.
Wangadya expressed the view that the minister had good intentions but stressed the importance of respecting the rights and freedoms of suspects. Her remarks underscored the principle that the fight against corruption must go hand in hand with respect for the law, due process, and the fundamental rights of every individual, regardless of the allegations they face. The Chairperson also used the opportunity to remind Ugandans that protecting human rights is a shared responsibility that requires citizens to understand the available reporting mechanisms and take action whenever violations occur.
Wangadya distributed stickers and keyholders bearing the Commission's toll-free telephone numbers to help members of the public easily remember how to contact the institution. By placing the Commission's contact information directly in the hands of citizens, the initiative seeks to make reporting human rights violations more accessible. Several visitors took the opportunity to commend Wangadya for her efforts in promoting and protecting human rights, providing the Commission with direct feedback on public perceptions of its performance.
The exhibition is expected to conclude on Sunday, October 11, 2026, giving more visitors an opportunity to interact with the Commission, access educational materials, and learn about the procedures for seeking assistance when their rights are violated. Through her direct engagement with visitors, Wangadya has reinforced the message that human rights awareness begins with knowledge, grows through public participation, and becomes meaningful when people know where to turn for assistance.
Key points
- The UHRC Chairperson's engagement with the public aims to promote human rights awareness and provide citizens with accessible channels to report violations.
- The Commission's participation in the UMA exhibition demonstrates its commitment to reaching diverse audiences and promoting human rights education.
- Wangadya's initiative seeks to empower ordinary citizens to become advocates for the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
