PHOTOS: MOFA Honours Women in Diplomacy at “Give to Gain” Luncheon

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a special luncheon to honour the contributions of women in diplomacy, marking the culmination of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month celebrations.

Held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Ministry headquarters, the event—under the theme “Give to Gain”—brought together serving and retired female diplomats, partners, and dignitaries to reflect on women’s leadership, diplomacy, and their role in driving societal transformation.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs), highlighted the Ministry’s central role in advancing Uganda’s global engagement, noting that women remain key to its success.

He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by women in foreign service and called for deliberate efforts to support their professional growth and personal well-being.

Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs) interacts with Pastor Jessica Kayanja

The keynote address was delivered by Pastor Jessica Kayanja, who emphasized resilience, emotional intelligence, and intentional living as essential qualities for women in leadership. She noted that a woman’s strength lies in her ability to foster harmony, exercise wise leadership, and maintain a clear sense of purpose.

Drawing from personal experience, she encouraged female Foreign Service Officers to actively nurture their marital relationships despite the challenges of diplomatic postings, including long periods of separation from their families.

MOFA PS Mr Vincent Bagiire hailed women’s efforts saying their contribution must be sustained through policy and practice

She stressed that open and honest communication with partners is critical in sustaining strong relationships across distances.

Retired Ambassador Rosemary Semafumu Mukasa also shared insights on the realities of diplomatic life, describing career and family as parallel journeys that require alignment, dialogue, and mutual understanding. She urged women to balance ambition with adaptability, while recognizing the sacrifices and resilience required in foreign service.

The event was attended by several retired Foreign Service Officers, including Ambassadors Alexis Kyeyune, Juliet Kalema, Hellen Khainza, Rosette Nyirikindi, Bernadette Olowo, and Norah Katabarwa, among others.

Participants also paid tribute to the late Ambassador Santa Laker Kinyera and other departed female diplomats, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to Uganda’s diplomatic service.