The second edition of the Imara Girls Festival, organized by the Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU), burst into life on October 12, 2024, at Kati Kati grounds in Kampala. This vibrant celebration showcased the powerful voices, creativity, and innovative spirit of young women, all while shining a spotlight on the socio-economic issues affecting women and girls. The festival served as a dynamic platform for discussions, sharing experiences, and offering actionable solutions.

In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, this year’s festival, themed “Invest in Her, Unleash Her Potential,” emphasized the significance of empowering young women as key drivers of local and global development. By recognizing the power of unified voices, the event inspired attendees to challenge stereotypes and embrace their agency, fostering a spirit of leadership and resilience.

No celebration would be complete without a dash of fun! Festival-goers enjoyed an exciting array of games and activities, alongside electrifying performances by renowned female artists such as Jackie Chandiru, Lillian Mbabazi, Nina Rose, Karole Kasita, Kateleya and Kandle, Jowy Landa, Racheal Ray, and Ava Peace. Beyond the celebrations, the festival served as a key fundraising and awareness platform for the Imara Women’s Centre (IWC), a transformative project dedicated to advancing women’s rights.

Imara (Swahili word for – bold, strong, firm) is an initiative by the Forum for Women in Democracy to steer forward work on the advancement of women’s rights. The IWC will be a visible embodiment of women’s independent organising and a vital practical base from which to advance the struggle for gender equality. The Centre will facilitate women’s own independent voice, build and strengthen women leaders to champion gender equality, provide a safe and empowering space, and support activism for zero acceptance of sexual and gender-based violence. It will also be a place for rejuvenation, reflection, nurturing, healing and self-care and a women’s space for creativity, innovation, and learning.

To support the construction of the Centre, the festival featured the ongoing #1KForImara Campaign, aimed at mobilizing 1 million people to contribute a minimum of 1,000 shillings monthly. This campaign, initially launched in schools, gained momentum as festival attendees signed pledge cards and made direct contributions into the Imara fundraising boxes. Beyond the campaign, attendees also purchased Imara merchandise.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the young women, men, students, artists, exhibitors, sponsors, celebrities, and community members who made the Imara Girls Festival 2024 a resounding success. Your participation and continued support play a crucial role in building a future where women and girls can overcome barriers, lead and thrive. Together, we continue to push toward a more equitable world, with proceeds from sponsorships, exhibitions and donations supporting the establishment of the Imara Women’s Centre in Kasangati.

FOWODE calls upon the public to journey with us in this critical mission of making the Centre a reality. Consider committing a small, consistent amount, for as low as Shs.1000 or more every month over the next three years. You can also become ambassadors for the cause in your networks, connect Imara with potential supporters, and promote our fundraising initiatives through your social media channels. Your actions can profoundly impact the lives of girls, women, and boys in our country.