Namugalu Mariam
Uganda
My name is Namugalu Mariam, a 31-year-old Ugandan. I grew up in a home fractured by discord, raised primarily by my grandmother and father. My childhood was marked by the struggles of a broken family and the challenges of being deemed unworthy of education. Despite my evident intelligence and eagerness to learn, I was frequently denied the opportunity to attend school.
Life at home was tumultuous, shadowed by domestic violence, and eventually, I dropped out of school. The hostility intensified, but I clung to my dreams, fueled by the belief that I deserved better. After enduring years of pain and adversity, I made a life-changing decision to leave an abusive marriage, taking my two beautiful children with me. That moment marked a turning point. I returned to school and began rebuilding my life as a single mother.
These experiences shaped my resolve to advocate for others facing similar challenges. I found purpose in working with charities and women's organisations, focusing on helping women and children break free from the cycle of domestic violence. My work brought me face-to-face with countless stories of pain and resilience, deepening my commitment to being a voice for the voiceless.
A Call to Action for Uganda
Domestic violence and the ripple effects of broken homes are not just personal struggles but societal crises in Uganda. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and UN Women, 51% of ever-married women aged 15–49 have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner.
These statistics reflect a collective struggle that demands urgent attention. The fabric of our society is torn when homes—meant to be safe havens—become battlegrounds. But in this challenge lies an opportunity: together, we can rewrite the story of our community, ensuring that every woman and child has the freedom to live, grow, and thrive without fear.
The People Power movement, which later evolved into the National Unity Platform (NUP), became my platform to amplify this call to action. Within this community, I found shared values and a collective belief in the power of unity to drive change. Together, we have shown that even against tremendous odds, we can take meaningful steps toward justice and equality.
The Urgency to Act
The challenges we face today—domestic violence, lack of education, and environmental degradation—demand immediate action. The statistics are more than numbers; they represent real people, suffering, and opportunities to make a difference. My fight for justice has come at a cost, including imprisonment without food or water. Yet, these trials have only strengthened my resolve.
As a political, human, and climate activist, I am committed to shaping policies that address these urgent issues. My goal is to champion the rights of women and children, support single mothers, and create opportunities for education while ensuring a sustainable future for our environment.
As I prepare to stand for the Lord Women Councillor in 2026, I call on our community to join me in this mission. The time to act is now. Together, we can dismantle the systems of oppression, protect the vulnerable, and create a society where every individual has the chance to rise above their circumstances.
This is not just my story; it is our story. It is a testament to what we can achieve when we refuse to be silent, unite for a common cause, and choose hope over despair. Together, let us create a future that reflects our people's strength, resilience, and dignity.