Clothilda Babirekere: A Leading Voice for Gender Equality in Uganda

Clothilda Babirekere, a seasoned Gender Specialist with over 20 years of experience, is making waves as a member of the Board of Directors and Advisor on gender mainstreaming in the artisanal value chain. With a strong educational background from Makerere University, where she specialized in Gender and Political Science, Clothilda is committed to advancing gender equity and empowering marginalized communities.

Clothilda’s career began with the Uganda Media Women’s Association, where she served as a Gender Programme Officer for the DGF-funded “Media for Gender Equality Project.” This initiative was critical in promoting women’s voices in the media and advocating for gender-sensitive content. Her work in this area laid the foundation for her future roles, which have focused on preventing domestic violence and supporting rural women.

In her role as Programme Coordinator for Domestic Violence Prevention with the International Services Fund (ISF), Clothilda led initiatives aimed at reducing gender-based violence. She further solidified her impact as the Team Leader for Oxfam’s “Get Smart Rural Women’s Project,” where she enabled rural women to access vital information and actively engage in government programs and policies.

Currently, Clothilda coordinates a Capacity Building Project focused on Entrepreneurship, Vocational Skills, and Market Linkages, aimed at reducing vulnerability among youth in Kampala. Funded by the Children’s Rights and Violence Prevention Fund, this project highlights her commitment to equipping both male and female youth with the necessary skills to thrive in today’s economy.

As a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Gender Specialist with the Uganda National Farmers Federation (UNFFE), Clothilda was instrumental in developing the UNFFE Gender Policy. Her role as Data Editor at the Uganda Electoral Commission was equally significant, contributing to the creation of the first National Voters Register—a crucial step in ensuring fair electoral processes in Uganda.

In addition to her practical work, Clothilda is also an accomplished writer and thought leader. She participated in the Barefoot 4 Write Shop in South Africa in 2005, refining her communication skills and advocating for social change. Her publication, “Under the Mango Tree,” featured in the compilation “The Real Work of Social Change,” showcases her insights on gender issues and the importance of community empowerment.

Clothilda’s expertise spans various domains, including media monitoring, communication, facilitation, and research. She is an active member of the Uganda Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention Coalition network, collaborating with fellow advocates to address pressing social issues.

Her tireless dedication to gender equality has not gone unnoticed. Clothilda is recognized not only for her advocacy but also for her ability to mobilize communities and influence policy at both local and national levels. Her work is a testament to the significant strides being made in Uganda toward gender equity, although challenges remain.

As she continues her work in various capacities, Clothilda Babirekere remains a leading voice in the fight for gender equality in Uganda. Her efforts not only uplift women and youth but also serve as an inspiration for future generations of advocates striving for a more equitable society. With her extensive experience and unwavering commitment, Clothilda is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.