EOC Calls for Affirmative Action for Poverty-Stricken Regions
By Bbale Nickson
The Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission, Safia Nalule Juuko this morning, presented to Parliament the 10th and 11th Annual reports on the state of Equal Opportunities in Uganda.
The two reports were received by the Deputy Clerk, Corporate Affairs, Henry Waiswa, on behalf of the Speaker, Anita Among.
Presenting highlights of the reports, Nalule said that the 2024 report noted considerable elimination of structural and systemic discrimination and inequality in Uganda in the areas of gender, age, religion, history, race and geographical locations.
However, poverty rates remain prevalent with Karamoja standing at 84.9%, Acholi (63.3%), Westnile (59.1%), Lango (57.0%), Elgon (55.6%), Teso (55.6%) and Busoga (45.1%) due to historical reasons.
“Government should provide budgetary affirmative action in favour of sub-regions affected by wars and historical marginalisation,” Nalule said.
On the positive side, the report noted that Uganda is faring better than all its East African counterparts on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion.
The Speaker, in her speech presented by Waiswa commended the Commission for the timely submission of the reports, emphasising that the reports will inform various actions of government in furtherance of national development.
“As a people-centered Parliament, we strive for the elimination of all forms of discrimination and inequalities at all levels of society by working together with relevant Government agencies as a catalyst for national unity, cohesion and development,”she said.
