Women Entrepreneurs celebrates the Annual Business Achievers’ Awards

The Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL) recently hosted the Annual Business Achievers; Awards and Gala Dinner at Kabira Country Club, marking the culmination of the Month of Women Entrepreneurs (MOWE), dedicated to celebrating and empowering women in business.

MOWE is a month-long initiative designed to spotlight the significant role of women in entrepreneurship.

UWEAL, with its extensive network of 104 chapters, eight cooperatives, six HUBs, and 15 clusters, actively engages in various activities during MOWE.

These include awareness events, skill-building programs, advocacy forums, leadership conferences, business awards, media campaigns, and exhibitions.

The Annual Business Achievers’ Awards and Gala Dinner is a prestigious event dedicated to recognizing exceptional women entrepreneurs. In a night filled with inspiration and recognition, UWEAL honored seven outstanding women in various categories, showcasing their resilience, innovation, and leadership in business. The ceremony was attended by women entrepreneurs, representatives from the public and private sector partners, and industry stakeholders like

Some of the awardees included Dr. Jover Byarugaba Abahikye – T. Mbiire Award for Woman Entrepreneur of the Year: Dr. Jover Byarugaba Abahikye, a multifaceted entrepreneur, Founder, and CEO of Ebenezer Schools, and a Director of Pearl Engineering Company Ltd, received the prestigious T. Mbiire Award. Her impact spans education, construction, healthcare, and agriculture, embodying excellence in diverse sectors.

The other was Jolly Banugire – I. Wanendeya Award for UWEAL Spirit: Jolly Banugire, the force behind Jostar Limited in real estate, was honored with the I. Wanendeya Award. With a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, she defied norms, diversified into textiles and handbags, and boasts a real estate portfolio including 15 residential units.

The third awardee is Bright Phiona – UWEAL Regional Entrepreneur Award (East, West and North Regions): Bright Phiona, the visionary leader behind Tooro Gallery Foundation, received the UWEAL Regional Entrepreneur Award. Her organization, established in 2014, empowers women through handcraft skills, creating income-generating opportunities.

Sharon Bency Acio – C. Kisumba Award for UWEAL Rising Star (Youth): Sharon Bency Acio, the Managing Director of ReadySprout Uganda Limited, received the C. Kisumba Award. Her venture shifted focus to soybean value addition.

Meanwhile, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) – Women Entrepreneur Advancement Award: Uganda’s government revenue collection agency was acknowledged for its exceptional efforts in trade facilitation for women entrepreneurs. URA’s commitment to engaging with women in business through tax education workshops and the Women Trade Facilitation Framework (WTFF) has significantly contributed to the economic empowerment of over 5,032 women members.

The UWEAL Chief Executive Officer Connie Kekihembo said, “Tonight, we celebrate not just your achievements, but the spirit of resilience, innovation, and leadership that defines each of you. Your success stories are beacons of inspiration, illuminating the path for others.”

UWEAL continues to champion the cause of women entrepreneurs, fostering a thriving ecosystem for women in business, she said.