The Uganda Association of Women Lawyers ( FIDA ) recently commemorated its remarkable 50-year journey with a splendid dinner event held at Serena Hotel in Kampala. The gathering was graced by various feminist organisations , FIDA pioneers, program beneficiaries, women-led movements, community legal volunteers, officials from the Ministry of Gender, and women’s rights lawyers, creating a memorable and impactful celebration.
During the golden jubilee celebration, FIDA Uganda took the opportunity to showcase its evolution since its inception in 1974, becoming a vital provider of legal aid services in Uganda. The event saw Rebecca Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and a founding member of FIDA, lauding the organization for its resilience and innovative efforts.
She shared the inspiring history of FIDA’s early days, emphasizing their advocacy against injustices such as rape and poor judgements.
Pledges and partnerships for the future
Rebecca Kadaga proudly announced a significant milestone for FIDA as they acquired a permanent home while celebrating their 50th anniversary. She expressed gratitude to FIDA members for their dedication and vowed to engage with the Minister of Justice to advance the Legal Aid Bill.
Minister Betty Amongi commended FIDA for championing justice for women, children, and vulnerable communities over the past five decades, highlighting the critical alignment of FIDA’s work with the ministry’s responsibilities.
Lillian Adriko, the Executive Director of FIDA, extended gratitude to the organization’s pioneers and partners for their unwavering support in ensuring justice for vulnerable individuals, particularly women. She emphasized the need for collective efforts in making legal aid a fundamental aspect of social responsibility towards underserved communities.
Adriko also shed light on the pressing challenge of online harassment in the legal environment, calling for concerted efforts to address this inequality and digital divide.
