It’s a Saturday, and the time is 2:10 PM as our vehicle arrives at Rapona Hotel, nestled in the heart of Moroto Town. A scene of anticipation unfolds as women pace up and down, one after another washing their hands in preparation for lunch. These women are attending a leadership training, an initiative aimed at empowering them to take on roles traditionally reserved for men.
As we arrive, one of the participants swiftly approaches us, her face lit with a welcoming smile. She introduces herself as Achia Natalina, a 35-year-old woman councilor for Nakadeli Parish, Rupa Sub County in Moroto District. Achia has held this position for nearly a decade, emerging as a prominent figure in her community and a staunch advocate for women’s rights.
Achia exudes confidence and authority as she speaks. She shares her journey from a woman who hesitated to step into leadership roles, to a shrewd representative of her community. “Before joining Karamoja Women Umbrellas Organization (KAWUO) trainings, I never had the courage, confidence, and morale to take up any leadership positions, especially in the political arena. I thought it was a field meant only for men. But after the training, my attitude changed,” Achia explains.
In her first political term, Achia served as the Speaker of the Sub County Council. During her tenure, she championed the elimination of abuse and oppression of women, focusing particularly on property ownership and decision-making processes. Her peers, who had previously undergone training with KAWUO, encouraged her to contest for a political position, leading to her election as Speaker of the Sub County Council.
Achia’s efforts have been transformative. She has identified and supported 28 girls in accessing skills programs, lobbied for increased funding for women-targeted projects, and raised awareness on critical issues such as child labor, teenage pregnancies, and child marriages.
“I once participated in an event with Karimojong elders, and I was inspired by their engagement. I believe women have great potential to contribute to such dialogues,” Achia attests. Her story is a testament to the power of nurturing and empowering women to take on leadership roles, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
