Karamoja Women Umbrella Organization (KAWUO) is a women’s network that was formed in 2007 in the Karamoja region by grass-root women to build and promote the local women’s participation in democratic governance and leadership, women access to justice, women economic empowerment and HIV/AIDS prevention response through lobby and advocacy, capacity building, networking and partnership to achieve sustainable development in the region. Under the company act 2012 and NGO Act 2016, KAWUO is incorporated as company limited by grantee and registered by National NGO Bureau respectively.
Vision
Socio-economically empowered and civically engaged women of Karamoja
Mission
To promote the participation of women in the development of Karamoja through socio-economic empowerment, lobbying, advocacy, capacity building, civic engagement, networking and partnership.
Our Mandate
As a women umbrella in the region, KAWUO is mandated to coordinate and be a platform that brings together all women and youth-led organizations in Karamoja Region to promote women rights furthermore, KAWUO is also mandated to coordinate the women’s movement in Karamoja which informs that national women’s movement
Thematic Areas
- Women’s Governance & Leadership
- Women and Girl’s protection and empowerment
- Women's economic empowerment
- KAWUO and members institutional development
KAWUO Strategic Objectives
- SO1: Promote women’s participation in governance and leadership to influence decision making at all levels for gender equality.
- SO2: Promote women’s participation in peace building and co-existence.
- SO3: Promotion of women and girl’s human rights.
- SO4: Promote women and girl’s access to health services.
- SO5: Promote women’s economic empowerment.
- SO6: Enhance institutional capacity of KAWUO and members
KAWUO core Values
- Equity – We treat everyone with fairness and justice in all that we do.
- Equality – We treat men and women with fairness without gender discrimination
- Integrity – We know our work and do what is right
- Accountability – we are responsible for our actions.
- Respect Diversity – we recognize each individual's uniqueness and differences in our work.
- Transparency – We do things in the open
- Inclusiveness – we work with people from different identities and backgrounds
- Teamwork – Working together for a common goal
Program Areas
KAWUO empowers women to actively participate in democratic processes and decision-making at all levels of leadership. Through training, mentorship, and advocacy, women are encouraged to take on leadership roles in their communities and influence institutional policies that affect their lives. This intervention promotes gender equity by ensuring that women have an equal voice and representation in governance, which has traditionally been male-dominated in Karamoja.
2. Women’s Access to Justice
Recognizing the widespread gender-based violence and discrimination in the region, KAWUO supports women and girls to access justice systems and legal protection. This program facilitates legal aid services, community sensitization on human rights, and support for survivors of abuse. By strengthening the ability of women to demand justice, KAWUO is helping reduce impunity and build safer communities for all, especially the most vulnerable
3. Women’s Economic Empowerment
KAWUO implements initiatives that provide women and youth with economic opportunities to break the cycle of poverty. This includes vocational skills training, savings and loan schemes, and support for income-generating projects. By improving financial literacy and independence, the program enables women to contribute to household income, support their families, and gain respect and confidence within their communities
4. Institutional Development and Organizational Strengthening
To sustain impact, KAWUO invests in building the capacity of women-led organizations and community groups. This program offers training in organizational management, advocacy, and resource mobilization. Strong institutions are essential for effective service delivery and for amplifying the voices of women at local and national levels. Through this, KAWUO ensures long-term sustainability and local ownership of development efforts.