Sexual Harassment at Work Places: Minister condemns employers who abuse power
United Nations Development Program Resident Representative of Uganda Elsie Attafuah, emphasized the role of Uganda's private sector institutions in championing gender equality and women's empowerment in the workplaces.
The Minister for Gender Labor and Social Development, Betty Amongi, has condemned the acts of sexual harassment at workplaces. She said these immoral acts compromise women’s abilities at work.
Amongi was speaking at the Gender Equality Awards ceremony organized by the United Nations Development Program and Private Sector Foundation of Uganda in Kampala.
The Gender Equality Seal is a certification program for both private and public institutions that enables businesses to increase productivity, profitability, and partnerships, through reducing gender gaps, promoting equality in workplaces, and women’s empowerment.
Amongi applauded companies that have taken the initiative of employing women. She condemned employers who misuse power and take advantage of women before offering them employment.
“The acknowledgment of the award does not signify an absence of problems but recognizes a commitment to addressing them. I commended companies for adopting Sexual Harassment Policies and urge you all to set an example for others in fostering gender equality in the workplace,” she said.
Amongi emphasized the paramount role of government in championing gender equality. As the head of the gender ministry, she underscored their commitment to fostering equal opportunities for both men and women.
At least 40 private sector companies have been awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze certifications during the Gender Equality Seal awards. The awards is part of a global UNDP initiative to promote investment in systems that integrate gender equality within workplaces and business strategies.
United Nations Development Program Resident Representative of Uganda Elsie Attafuah, emphasized the role of Uganda’s private sector institutions in championing gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace.
She said, “The Gender Equality Seal initiative serves as a beacon, showcasing the potential of Public-Private Partnerships in accelerating development interventions for women’s equality”
Uganda was the first country to pioneer the GES in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2016. Spearheaded by UNDP, in partnership with PSFU, the GES has since attracted over 90 companies from different sectors including manufacturing, banking, telecommunications, hospitality, media, health, and ICT.
