Kampala – Hon. Hope Nankunda has formally declared her candidacy for the position of Secretary for Finance of the National Women’s Council (NWC) of Uganda, pledging transparent financial stewardship that will turn Council resources into real economic opportunities for women across the country.
In a statement released on 27 August and addressed to women, leadership delegates, and supporters nationwide, Nankunda said her decision was rooted in extensive travel through sub-counties and rural communities.
“Having traveled to every corner of Uganda—from the bustling sub-counties to our vibrant rural communities—I have listened closely to your voices, shared in your challenges, and witnessed the immense, untapped potential of our women,” she stated. “Today, grounded in those conversations and inspired by our shared vision, I humbly announce my official candidacy for Secretary for Finance of the National Women Council of Uganda.”
She stressed that progress depends on strong, accountable management of collective funds. “I am stepping forward to ensure our collective funds are managed with integrity, efficiency, and direct accountability to the grassroots. Together, let us build a financially empowered, resilient, and thriving future for all Ugandan women.”
In a separate message to fellow chairpersons, Nankunda described the announcement as her formal declaration and appealed for their support.
Nankunda brings proven local leadership experience to the national race. She previously ran unopposed for Chairperson of the Women’s Council in Kassanda District, a clear demonstration of the trust and confidence she commands at the grassroots. That uncontested victory underscored her ability to unite women leaders and deliver results without division.
A teacher, adolescent counsellor, and long-time advocate for girls’ and women’s rights, Nankunda has nearly two decades of experience working with students, parents, and communities. She is the founder and Executive Director of Raising Teenagers Uganda, an organisation that creates safe spaces for young people, prioritises menstrual hygiene management for vulnerable girls, and provides guidance and counselling services that help girls stay in or return to school.
She also serves as Central Region coordinator for Girls Not Brides Uganda, an alliance of civil society organisations working to end child marriage. Nankunda co-founded Health Promotion Rights agency, is a mentor through the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, and has been recognised as an Esther Ambassador for Uganda. She is a Rotarian, mother, mentor, trainer, and human rights activist whose work focuses on Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 5 (Gender Equality).
Her personal story informs her advocacy. Orphaned young and raised across different homes, she later supported her sister—who had become a teenage mother—to return to school and complete her education. That experience fuels her conviction that education and second chances can transform lives.
Supporters highlight several strengths that position her well for the finance portfolio. Her unopposed election as Kassanda District Women’s Council Chairperson gave her direct experience managing local structures and resources. She brings deep grassroots credibility from years of work at village and district levels. Through her organisations she has successfully mobilised partnerships with government, civil society, and the private sector—experience relevant to managing NWC funds effectively. Her programmes emphasise economic empowerment, skills training, and educational inclusion, aligning with the need to convert financial resources into tangible opportunities for women. She is known for an integrity-driven approach and maintains national networks that support regional balance.
Nankunda’s broader campaign message centres on uniting and empowering women so that no woman and no region is left behind. Key priorities include grassroots-driven economic empowerment, equitable resource distribution, protection of health and safety, strengthening leadership capacity at lower levels, and digital and educational inclusion for young women.
The National Women’s Council elections are scheduled for 2 September 2026.
She concludes her appeal simply: she asks for the vote, the trust, and the support of Ugandan women to deliver accountable financial leadership that serves the grassroots.
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