Florence Alice Lubega was the first female parliamentarian in Uganda, whose ground-breaking gender barriers paved the way for women’s representation in the Uganda parliament.
Lubega was born from a humble background on November 5, 1917, and was raised well enough to value education and social justice. While pursuing her studies in Social Sciences at Makerere University, Lubega developed a passion for advocating women’s rights.
Her political career began in the early 1960s when Uganda gained its independence from British colonial rule. She became actively involved in the women’s movement, fighting for gender equality and women’s representation in politics.
Recognizing the need for women’s voices to be heard, she co-founded the Women’s League of Uganda, an organization aimed at mobilizing women’s political participation.
In 1962, Lubega’s dedication and commitment paid off when she contested and won a seat in the Ugandan Parliament.
Her election as the country’s first female parliamentarian was a significant milestone, not only for her but also for women across Uganda.
It marked the beginning of a new era, showcasing that women were just as capable of leading and influencing political decisions.
As a parliamentarian, Lubega was committed to addressing the issues that mattered most to women. She used her position to champion gender equality and fight against discriminatory laws and practices.
Lubega played a crucial role in pushing for legal reforms that aimed to protect women’s rights, including advocating for laws against gender-based violence, promoting access to education for girls, and equal opportunities in the workforce.
She believed that the inclusion of women in decision-making processes was vital for the progress and development of Uganda.
Her leadership and commitment to empowering women have influenced subsequent generations of female parliamentarians, who continue to champion the cause of gender equality.
Lubega’s trailblazing journey as Uganda’s first female parliamentarian serves as a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Through her political career, she shattered societal norms and paved the way for increased women’s representation in Uganda’s Parliament.
