In the Spotlight: Some inspiring women entrepreneurs from Uganda
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Uganda known as “The Pearl of Africa” is a beacon of entrepreneurship in Africa, with women playing a vital role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape. As one of the few countries in the world to achieve gender parity in entrepreneurship, Uganda boasts of a thriving community of female business leaders. Women-led enterprises contribute significantly to economic growth, accounting for nearly 31% of registered Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and making up 52.5% of the labour force.
Women entrepreneurs pioneering change and driving economic growth
MSMEs contribute approximately 30% of Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employ more than 2.5 million people.
But here’s a reality check. Despite their impressive contributions, women entrepreneurs in Uganda do face gender-specific constraints that hinder their business growth. Although women entrepreneurs own at least 31 percent of all registered Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Uganda (SMEs make up at least 70 percent of the economy, contributing 20 percent of GDP), a recent World Bank report, Profiting from Parity, reveals that women entrepreneurs continue to earn lower profits than men (34% less on average).
On the other hand, today, there are support systems fueling women’s entrepreneurship in Uganda, that render support to the women.
Here, we highlight success stories of some inspiring women entrepreneurs, who overcame challenges to survive. We showcase how these determined women are not just building businesses, but transforming communities and the economy at large.
> Aisha Ali, Founder of Kampala International School Uganda (KISU)
Aisha Ali is Founder of Kampala International School Uganda (KISU). It is one of the leading international schools in the country.
Her vision is unique – to provide high-quality education that prepares students for global opportunities. And, this has made KISU a prestigious institution today. Her dedication to education and her innovative approach to learning have indeed, inspired many and have also set a high standard in the education sector.
> Victoria Sekitoleko, Founder of Uganda Agribusiness Alliance
Victoria Sekitoleko is a former Minister of Agriculture. She is Founder of Uganda Agribusiness Alliance which aims to support agribusiness development in Uganda. Through her organization, she provides training, advocacy & resources to – farmers, particularly women, to improve agricultural practices and increase productivity. Her sincere and strong efforts have been instrumental in transforming Uganda’s agricultural sector.
> Betty Namubiru, Co-Founder of Women in Technology Uganda (WITU)
Betty Namubiru is a Co-Founder of Women in Technology Uganda (WITU). This is an organization dedicated to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. WITU provides a number of services – like training, mentorship & resources to women and girls interested in technology careers. Today, her passion for tech education and empowerment is indeed, fostering a new generation of female tech leaders in Uganda.
> Milly Businge, Founder of Milly’s Organic Products
Milly Businge is the Founder of Milly’s Organic Products, which is a company that produces organic health and wellness products. Her business focuses on natural remedies and supplements that promote overall well-being.
It is her dedication to natural health solutions that has garnered her a loyal customer base and recognition in the wellness industry too.
> Eunice Abenakyo, Founder of Akina Mama wa Afrika
Eunice Abenakyo founded Akina Mama wa Afrika, which is a non-profit organization that advocates for women’s rights and leadership in Africa. She lives in Kampala, and is a lawyer, feminist, and development specialist with a rich experience in advancing social justice at national, regional and international levels.
She is the current Executive Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), a Pan African Leadership Development Organisation.
Her first book was titled ‘Nurture or Nature: Sowing seeds of greatness’.
Her organization provides training, mentorship & advocacy – to empower women to take on leadership roles in their communities and industries. Today her remarkable work has created a significant impact on promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in Uganda and beyond.
> Brenda Ssekabembe Nakalema, Founder & CEO of Bake for Me bakery
Brenda Ssekabembe Nakalema is Founder & CEO of Bake for Me bakery. Her story is indeed, one of transformation. From humble beginnings, the company evolved into a cherished local bakery, dedicated to serving the community with exceptional commitment to quality.
Her company was registered in 2004 and soon it flourished. With the skills and knowledge she gained from the training, she began to win contract after contract.
Today, she is able to provide more for her loved ones.
To put in her own words, “baking is not just a craft, it’s a love affair between us and the best ingredients to conjure the most timeless recipes”.
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
Shree Lahiri
Poonam Sinha
