In a landmark decision that has reverberated throughout the organization, the Board of Directors of the Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL) has officially announced the dismissal of CEO Ms. Constance Kekihembo.
The decision, which has garnered unanimous support from the Board, the Council of Elders, and the Advisory Council, reflects a collective response to growing concerns regarding the association’s strategic direction and leadership effectiveness.
The sacking, which was communicated to members via a press release on 4th December 2025, marks a significant shift in UWEAL’s leadership landscape.
Sources within the organization have indicated that Ms. Kekihembo’s tenure faced increasing scrutiny due to allegations of mismanagement and an inability to effectively advocate for women entrepreneurs in Uganda.
The Board of Directors (BOD) expressed the sentiments of the governing bodies in a statement: “This decision has not been taken lightly; however, after extensive discussions and evaluations, it became clear that a new direction is imperative for the continuation of our mission. We are committed to supporting women entrepreneurs and ensuring UWEAL thrives under leadership that shares our vision.”
The decision has been met with widespread approval from UWEAL’s members, current staff, and former employees, many of whom have long voiced concerns over Ms. Kekihembo’s policies and management style. A former staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “This is a much-needed change. For far too long, the association has struggled under leadership that failed to prioritize the needs of its members.”
A Council member summed up the new direction; “UWEAL belongs to its members. This decision reaffirms our commitment to protecting the Association and restoring its rightful place as the leading voice for women entrepreneurs in Uganda.”
Support for the Board’s decision extends beyond internal stakeholders. A number of UWEAL members and entrepreneurs have since remarked, “This is a pivotal moment for us. We’ve always believed in the potential of UWEAL to propel our businesses forward, and with new leadership, we can finally hope for a fresh vision that truly champions our cause.”
The overall tone among UWEAL’s constituencies has been one of optimism. Majority, if not all, of the key members are rallying behind the Board’s decision and are eager to support the transitioning process. A member of the Advisory Council, who prefers to remain anonymous, has indicated that it will soon hold a series of meetings to discuss the desired competencies and qualifications for the new CEO, prioritizing an individual who can effectively address the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Uganda.
The leadership change comes at a critical time as UWEAL seeks to solidify its role as a leading advocate for the empowerment of women in business across the country. With the backing of both the Council of Elders and the Advisory Council, the Board aims to ensure that the next CEO aligns closely with UWEAL’s mission and values, fostering a culture of transparency, collaboration, and advocacy.
As the dust settles on this significant leadership transition, UWEAL members and stakeholders remain hopeful about the future trajectory of the organization. With an eye toward sustainable growth and empowerment of women entrepreneurs, the next chapter for UWEAL could set the stage for transformative initiatives that elevate the association’s impact in the business world.
In conclusion, the sacking of Ms. Constance Kekihembo as CEO of UWEAL signifies a pivotal moment for the association. While it is a time of uncertainty, the strong alignment among the leadership groups and the overwhelming support of the membership suggest a renewed commitment to the association’s foundational mission: to empower and uplift women entrepreneurs in Uganda. As UWEAL moves forward, the choice of its next leader will be critical in shaping its future and ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope for countless women seeking to carve their path in the business landscape.
In the interim, the BOD has appointed Ms. Magdalane Nakakande as CEO. She is expected to support the current Team on delivering UWEAL’s current programs and also support the transitioning processes.
