Women entrepreneurs under the Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL) have initiated a fundraising campaign to collect 13 billion shillings aimed at setting up a Women’s Incubation Center.

According to Elizabeth Kasenene, the Board Chairperson of UWEAL, the proposed facility, planned for Namanve Industrial Park is intended to empower both emerging and established women-led businesses by providing mentorship, workspace, and guidance to help them expand and remain competitive in the market.

Kasenene emphasized that once completed, the centre will focus on six major value chains, among them agro-processing, textiles, metal works, and cosmetics, which currently attract the highest number of women entrepreneurs.

She made these remarks on Saturday during a wellness event that launched the November Month of Women Entrepreneurs, an initiative by the International Labour Organization (ILO) dedicated to celebrating women making significant contributions to business globally.

In Uganda, UWEAL Chief Executive Officer Connie Kekihembo explained that activities throughout the month will allow women to showcase their products, learn about available business opportunities, and receive guidance on how to formalize their enterprises.

Kekihembo acknowledged that while more women are venturing into business and achieving success, many still operate in low-profit sectors and shy away from industries viewed as male-dominated. She further noted that despite government support programs such as the GROW project which provides women with access to financial resources, challenges persist, including requirements for spousal consent before obtaining funds.

Addressing the broader challenges women face, Dr. Raymond Mugume, a psychiatrist at TMR International Hospital, remarked that women require additional support as they balance multiple responsibilities such as family care and active participation in the workforce, both of which are vital for national development.