“You Inspired Me to Become an MP,” Nuria Tells NARWOA Executive Director

By Richard Onapatum

KOTIDO MUNICIPALITY — Kotido Woman Member of Parliament Hon. Nuria Hafsa Teko has credited Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA) and its Executive Director Jesca Ruth Ataa for shaping women leaders in the district, saying the organization’s mentorship inspired her own journey into leadership and politics.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the NARWOA offices in Kotido Municipality, on thursday 16th-7-2026, Teko praised Ataa for dedicating her life to empowering grassroots women and promoting their participation in governance and decision-making.

“Let all people know that there is a woman who has been supporting grassroots women in Kotido. You have supported women for many years and trained numerous community leaders. For me to become a Member of Parliament, it is you, as my mother, who inspired me,” Teko said.

The legislator commended NARWOA for its role in building the confidence, leadership skills, and civic awareness of women across the district, noting that many women leaders have benefited from the organization’s trainings and mentorship programmes.

“All the women leaders we see in Kotido today have passed through NARWOA trainings in one way or another. Thank you for building confidence and leadership skills among women and for believing in their potential,” she said.

Teko also applauded NARWOA for its efforts in combating gender-based violence and advocating for the rights and welfare of women and girls.

“Thank you for fighting gender-based violence and standing with women when they need support. Your work has transformed many lives and strengthened women’s voices in our communities,” she said.

Calling for unity among women leaders, the Woman MP urged women to put aside political differences and focus on creating lasting impact in their communities.

“Politics is done. Let us bring women together. Let us work with our people and leave lasting impressions and meaningful impact in our communities,” she said.

Teko pledged to use her office to support women’s empowerment initiatives and attract development partners to Kotido.

“This position I hold is meant to support you. If there are areas where support has been lacking, count on me. I promise to attract donors and partners to support women and development initiatives in Kotido,” she said.

She revealed that she had already engaged Rotary leaders and encouraged them to consider supporting development initiatives in the district.

“I have met Rotary leaders and interested them in coming to Kotido. We need more partners to support our communities and create opportunities for women and young people,” she added.

The legislator further pledged to champion issues affecting women at the national level.

“If there is anything that requires legislation or advocacy for the people of Kotido, count on me. My office is open and ready to support initiatives that improve the lives of our people,” she said.

Responding to the remarks, Jessica Ruth Ataa, the Executive Director of NARWOA, thanked the Woman MP for the courtesy visit, describing it as an important step towards strengthening collaboration between women leaders and community-based organizations.

“It has been a big gap, and I am pleased that you have bridged it through this visit. It demonstrates your commitment to engaging with women and listening to their concerns,” Ataa said.

She called for the revival of women’s clubs and platforms that previously played a key role in mobilizing and empowering women across the district.

Ataa also pledged to encourage the formation and strengthening of women’s groups in the newly created sub-counties to ensure women continue to have spaces where they can organize, learn, and advocate for their rights.

“We must continue strengthening women’s structures at all levels so that women remain active participants in development and governance processes,” she said.

The NARWOA Executive Director appealed for support towards the women Network learning exposure programme, saying it would provide women leaders with opportunities to learn from successful initiatives in other parts of the country.

She also emphasized the importance of investing in young women and nurturing the next generation of female leaders.

“We need to continue creating opportunities for young women to develop leadership skills, gain confidence, and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes,” she said.

Ataa expressed pride in the strength of women’s networks in Kotido, describing them as among the most vibrant in Uganda due to years of sustained investment in mentorship, leadership development, and community mobilization.

The courtesy visit ended with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to working together to advance women’s empowerment, strengthen grassroots structures, and improve the wellbeing of women and families across Kotido District.

The engagement also highlighted the growing recognition of NARWOA’s contribution to women’s leadership development and community transformation, with both leaders calling for greater collaboration to ensure women remain at the center of development and governance processes.

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