In our world today, women face numberless challenges, from gender-based violence to limited access to education and economic opportunities. Despite strides made in recent years, achieving gender equality remains an uphill battle, particularly in regions like Kampala, where women encounter barriers hindering their full participation in society. Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) stands as a beacon of hope, calling for an end to all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, with the aim of creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
Uplifting Women through Vocational Training:
Action for Fundamental Change and Development (AFFCAD) is one of the leaders in the fight against gender inequality, spearheading initiatives to empower women through vocational training and education. From courses in hairdressing, cosmetology, cooking, and bakery to technology and graphics designing, AFFCAD provides women with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in their communities.
The SDGs Exhibition Event: A Celebration of Women’s Empowerment:
On March 21st, we joined hands with AFFCAD and African Youth Development Link (AYDL) to host an inspiring SDGs Exhibition Event at the AFFCAD office in Bwaise, Kampala. Themed “Count Her In: Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress,” the event served as a post-International Women’s Day celebration, aligning perfectly with the goals of SDG 5.
During the event, young women showcased their talents and skills acquired through various departments of the AFFCAD vocational training institute. From hairdressing and cosmetology to cooking and bakery, these women demonstrated their potential to make meaningful contributions to their communities. More than just a celebration, it was a call to action, reminding participants of the importance of women in society.
Open Space Centre, Advocates for Gender Equality:
As partners in this endeavour, we at Open Space Centre recognize the importance of creating awareness and promoting gender equality. Through our localized approach to the SDGs, we strive to engage and empower young people in Uganda, making sustainable development relatable and achievable. Our latest initiative, Amplifying Localization of SDGs, seeks to make a positive contribution to citizen engagement in sustainable development by diversifying our target audience and adopting a multi-stakeholder approach.
Insight:
The SDGs Exhibition Event coincides with our ongoing initiative, Amplifying Localization of SDGs, which aims to empower young people at risk of being left out of the sustainable development conversation. By expanding our reach and engaging with diverse stakeholders, we are committed to creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.