KAMPALA, UGANDA — Dr. Ruth Biyinzika Kasolo, a prominent figure associated with Uganda’s Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) Project, has paid tribute to businessman Patrick Bitature, former Finance Minister Gerald Ssendaula and Mr. Katusiime for the mentorship, support and encouragement she says have shaped her professional journey.
Speaking to this writer on Friday, Dr. Kasolo said people who believe in others before their potential becomes visible can have a lasting influence on their lives and careers.
She said her own journey has been shaped by individuals who not only encouraged her but also believed in the ability of women to lead, create change and make meaningful contributions to society.
“These great men have supported me along my way and I want to thank you, Mr. Patrick Bitature, Mr. Gerald Ssendaula. I thank you, Mr. Katusiime. You are wonderful men,” Dr. Kasolo said.
She emphasised that women need mentors and allies who recognise their abilities and support them in turning their potential into tangible achievements.
“Women need men that can be able to believe that women can make a change and support them to grow and to flourish and be able to make an impact in the world,” she said.
Dr. Kasolo described such support as an important form of mentorship that can give women the confidence to pursue opportunities, overcome barriers and realise their potential.
“You are wonderful men, and many women need such men to light them up, to grow and to flourish, to see the good side of it,” she said.
She added:
“These are the kinds of men women in the world need — such men to push them.”
‘I WILL ALWAYS CELEBRATE YOU’
For Dr. Kasolo, the appreciation is deeply personal.
She said the support and inspiration she has received from her mentors continue to influence her work and outlook, making their contribution something she intends to recognise throughout her life.
“I will always celebrate you because of the great support and inspiration you give me every day,” Dr. Kasolo said.
She further acknowledged that her journey has been strengthened by people who consistently encouraged her to believe in what she could accomplish.
“I am what I am because of the great support and inspiration you gave me every day,” she said.
Her remarks highlight the importance of mentorship in advancing women’s empowerment and leadership.
Through the GROW Project, Dr. Kasolo has been associated with efforts aimed at helping women entrepreneurs overcome barriers to business growth through skills development, mentorship, access to finance, markets and business development support.
For her, however, programmes and financial support alone cannot transform lives unless individuals and institutions are also willing to invest in people through encouragement, knowledge, mentorship and opportunities.
WOMEN NEED MEN WHO BELIEVE
Dr. Kasolo said men have an important role to play in supporting women’s advancement—not by taking over their journeys, but by creating opportunities and environments in which women can demonstrate what they are capable of achieving.
A woman given an opportunity can create opportunities for others.
A woman equipped with skills can build an enterprise.
A woman given confidence can become a leader.
And a woman supported by a strong network can extend her contribution beyond her immediate community.
Her appreciation of Bitature, Ssendaula and Katusiime therefore carries a broader message about the value of positive mentorship and support in society.
She said men who choose to support and mentor women should also be recognised because their influence can extend far beyond the individuals they directly support.
As she concluded her tribute, Dr. Kasolo wished her mentors many more years and said their contribution would remain an important part of her personal and professional story.
“I will always celebrate you because of the great support and inspiration you give me every day. I wish you many more years.”
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