International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8, recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while also reminding the world of the continued efforts needed to achieve gender equality. It began as a movement advocating for women’s rights, including fair working conditions, voting rights, and equal opportunities, and today serves as a global platform to celebrate progress and call for continued action.

Across Africa, the day highlights the strength and leadership of women who continue to shape their communities and drive social change. While progress has been made in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, and political participation, challenges like gender inequality, gender-based violence, and limited access to sexual and reproductive health services still persist.

In Uganda, Women’s Day celebrates women’s contributions to national development while encouraging continued advocacy for equality and empowerment. Women’s Day is both a celebration of women’s achievements and a call to continue empowering women and girls in every aspect of life. For feminist organizations working on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), the day is an opportunity to advocate for policies and systems that protect the rights of women and girls, ensuring they have access to information, services, and the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and futures.