In its continuous commitment to bolster private sector engagement nationwide, Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) has declared that the third season of the Women’s Day Katale will take place at the Dam Waters Rugby Ground in Jinja, from March 15th to 17th, 2024. The theme for this season is “Bridging Economic Divides for Women’s Prosperity.” This initiative is supported by Young Africa Works (YAW) Lead Firm Structure program, funded by Mastercard Foundation.
Jinja has been chosen as the ideal host for this year’s event due to its strategic location, abundant untapped opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, and a substantial pool of unemployed youth who, with opportunities, can significantly contribute to Uganda’s economic growth.
“This year’s Katale, held in the economically vibrant city of Jinja, reflects our strategic decision to bring this platform to Eastern Uganda. This region, though brimming with potential, faces considerable economic challenges. By hosting the Katale here, we aim to empower local women entrepreneurs, contribute to regional development, and bridge the economic divide,” Mr Stephen Asiimwe the PSFU Chief Executive Officer said.
He added: “As part of this year’s Katale, we are delighted to announce the participation of Inhebantu, the Queen of the Busoga Kingdom, as a special guest. Her influence and leadership will serve as an inspiration to young women in the Eastern Region and beyond. Through effective mobilization strategies, including community-based partnerships, digital marketing, media outreach, and the involvement of social media influencers, we aim to ensure maximum participation and impact.”
The third annual event builds on the success of the previous ‘Katales’ held in 2022 and 2023. The Women’s Day Katale debuted in Luwero district in 2022, drawing over 100 women-founded and women-led businesses. The second edition, hosted in Kampala in 2023, witnessed the participation of more than 250 women enterprises who showcased products, acquired business management skills, and delved into corporate governance.
Aligned with International Women’s Day celebrations, the Katale is an annual event that acknowledges the significant contributions and potential of women and girls as entrepreneurs. It serves as a platform for young individuals to network, connect with potential customers, and expand their customer base.
Simultaneously, women entrepreneurs seize the opportunity to learn, enhance their skills, and build capacity across various business aspects. During the Katale, women and girl entrepreneurs exhibit their products and services at no cost, engage in networking activities, acquire marketing skills, and have the chance to sell their products directly to the audience during the exhibition.
“The Women’s Day Katale is a powerful platform for women entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow. It has been growing tremendously since its inception in 2022, and last year, over 600 young entrepreneurs participated in Kampala, showcasing the event’s growing reach and impact. The event will feature business clinics led by industry experts, a One-Stop-Centre facilitated by key government agencies and banks, and a platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, expanding their market reach and forging valuable connections,” Madam Sarah Kagingo, the PSFU Vice Chairperson noted.
The global theme for International Women’s Day 2024, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” emphasizes the vital role women play in driving economic growth and societal well-being. Yet, despite remarkable progress, significant barriers continue to prevent women from fully participating in the economy. This makes the 2024 PSFU Katale a very timely intervention.