Empowering Change: My Journey with SEATINI Uganda in Advancing Women’s Economic Justice
Empowering Change: My Journey with SEATINI Uganda in Advancing Women’s Economic Justice
My name is Sophie Ndagire, and I am an economist with a profound passion for learning and a steadfast commitment to women’s and youth economic empowerment. This year, I had the privilege of joining SEATINI Uganda as a graduate trainee under the Women’s Economic Justice Program. This role has been instrumental in honing my skills in crafting concept notes, issue papers, and policy briefs using data-driven research to champion women’s economic issues.
My research on gender-responsive budgeting has been particularly enriching. It has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how specific budget allocations within the social development sector directly impact marginalized groups, particularly women. For instance, the proposed increase in funds allocated for community mobilization and mindset change (from 40.7 billion to over 100 billion) has the potential to significantly empower women. This initiative can equip them with the knowledge to leverage Parish Development Model funds for increased economic activity. Consequently, this could not only boost Uganda’s GDP but also improve the living standards of women, especially in rural areas, by 2030.
Beyond research, online engagements on topics such as “Gender Transformative Social Protection Financing for Women and Girls’ Economic Empowerment,” “Tax and Gender,” and “IMF and Gender” have been invaluable in expanding my network and fostering a global perspective on women’s economic issues. Learning from experts worldwide has broadened my thinking and strengthened my dedication to this cause.
Sophie Ndagire poses with local government officials and CSOs at the Launch of the Local Revenue Enhancement plan in Tororo Municipality
Traveling to Buliisa and Tororo Local Districts during the launch of the Local Revenue Enhancement Plan provided firsthand exposure to the importance of transparency and accountability in local revenue collection. Witnessing how effectively collected funds are allocated towards social services, such as clean public toilets at local markets, garbage collection initiatives, and public water system renovations, underscored the critical role these resources play in reducing inequality gaps in rural areas.
Furthermore, my participation in various events representing SEATINI has been a privilege. These include the recent dialogue on gender equality to strategize on government commitments at the 68th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68), the dialogue on climate financing focusing on leveraging taxation as a sustainable tool, discussions on the Proposed Tax Amendment Bills 2024, and the National Gathering of Women in the Food System. The insights gleaned from these engagements have provided a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of debt, climate change, taxation, agriculture, trade, and investment in addressing women’s economic challenges.
My experiences at SEATINI have been nothing short of phenomenal. I am eager to continue learning and refining my skills to become a powerful advocate for women’s and youth economic empowerment, paving the way for a brighter future for Africa.
