Women in Ugandan local government: the impact of affirmative action

Abstract

Uganda has introduced affirmative action to ensure that women are represented on the various Councils which govern village affairs. This article asks what has changed as a result of women's presence on the Councils. Both women and men felt that women had not significantly influenced Local Council planning and budget decisions. They felt this was due to lack of exposure to, and understanding of, council procedures and subjects (such as planning, budgeting, and accounting). However, women's presence in local government is leading to a positive change in men's and women's attitudes to women leaders in the community. These attitudes have previously prevented women's involvement in community activities. While this is positive in itself, the ability of women to participate actively in decisions about resource allocation needs to be monitored and supported – at both local and national government levels.