Brig Gen Charity Bainababo Promised A Spectacular Parade Display on the International Women’s Day, to be held at Kololo, Kampala on Sunday
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Uganda is set to mark the 42nd national commemoration of International Women’s Day with a series of events highlighting women’s achievements and the continued push for gender equality, with President Yoweri Museveni expected to preside over the celebrations as chief guest.
The national event will take place on March 8, 2026, at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, where 34 individuals will be decorated with national medals in recognition of their contribution to Uganda’s development and public service.
According to organisers, the majority of those set to receive honours are women, with 30 female recipients expected to be recognised during the ceremony. The awards are intended to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to national service, leadership, and the advancement of communities.
Among the decorations to be awarded are the National Independence Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Honorary Medal, which are given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country through public service, professional excellence, or community leadership.
At least 18 of the recipients will receive the National Independence Diamond Jubilee Medal, one of Uganda’s distinguished state honours that recognises exceptional commitment to national progress.
UPDF female soldiers
Members of the country’s security forces are also among those to be recognised. The list of honourees includes six officers from the Uganda Police Force, five from the Uganda Prisons Service, and five from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, all of whom will be decorated for their service.
This year’s celebrations will be held under the theme “Scaling up Investment to Accelerate Access to Justice for All Women and Girls in Uganda.” The theme highlights the need for stronger legal protections, improved access to justice systems, and increased investment in programmes that support women and girls.
One of the key highlights of the event will be an all-female parade staged by Uganda’s security forces, showcasing the growing role of women in the country’s defence and security institutions.
The parade is being coordinated by Brigadier-General Charity Bainababo, Director of Women’s Affairs in the UPDF, who has been supervising rehearsals and preparations for the ceremonial display.
“We are rehearsing as ladies because this year’s parade is all ladies, only ladies. I have been watching their rehearsals and overseeing them, and they are ready. We will give you a marvelous show,” Bainababo said during a recent briefing at Kololo.
Observed globally every year on March 8, International Women’s Day recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women while also highlighting the ongoing challenges they face.
For Uganda, the day has become an important national platform to celebrate women’s leadership, recognise their contribution to development, and reaffirm the country’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment..
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