Uganda Women Judges have joined their counterparts from around the world to participate in the 17th International Association of Women Judges Biennial Conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Uganda Women Judges have been led by the President of the International Association of Women Judges -Uganda Chapter, Lady Justice Elizabeth Alividza and the President Uganda Judicial Officers Association, Lady Justice Olive Kazaarwe Mukwaya. Justice Kazaarwe doubles as the IAWJ - Uganda Chapter Vice President.
The Conference which is running under the theme: Resilience Women in Leadership to end Gender-Based Violence& Femicide is focused on promoting gender justice and strengthening the role of women in leadership, particularly within the Judiciary.
The conference officially opened yesterday (April 09, 2025) with a keynote address by the President of the Republic of South Africa, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, who emphasized the crucial role men must play in ending violence against women.
President Ramaphosa noted that efforts to eliminate gender-based violence cannot succeed without the active participation of men, who are often the perpetrators.
"The fight against violence towards women cannot be fought and won without the participation of men. Men must be part of this struggle if we are to see real change," President Ramaphosa stated.
The President commended Governments- including his own - for deliberately appointing women to strategic leadership positions, saying that empowering women in decision-making roles is key to reducing their vulnerability and suffering.
He also condemned the practice of sexual harassment and exploitation in the workplace, particularly by men in positions of authority who demand sexual favors from women in exchange for professional opportunities.
"Men in positions of power who demand sex in return for jobs or promotions must be condemned. This practice is unacceptable and must come to an end," he stressed.
President Ramaphosa further called on women to unite and take full advantage of the various empowerment initiatives put in place by their Governments, noting that collective action is essential for sustained progress.
As he concluded his address, the President urged participants to approach the conference with seriousness and focus.
"Let us move away from what I would call a carnival mood and commit to serious business if we are to achieve meaningful results," he said.
Lady Justice Kazaarwe presented on the topic; Sexual Harassment and Sextortion within Judicial Systems- The Ugandan Perspective and Interventions, Collaboration between Jurisdictions. This, she presented with Justice Jean Kayira, High Court Malawi, Ms Sarai Chisala, Malawi and Ms Zikhona Ndlebe, DGRU University of Cape Town South Africa.
The conference continues with a series of panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at advancing gender equality, addressing challenges facing women in the Judiciary, and strengthening collaboration across borders.
Posted 10th, April 2025
