Amb Joy Ruth Acheng
Former Ugandan ambassador to Canada Joy Ruth Acheng has entered the race for national women council chairperson.
Acheng who currently heads Uganda’s Mission in the Bahamas following her expulsion from Canada, officially entered the race on Monday after announcing her candidature.
“Today, I officially announce my candidature for the position of National Women Council Chairperson,” she said.
The contest comes as Uganda conducts the elections of women councils and committees.
The Electoral Commission launched the electoral programme for administrative units which include; Village (LC I), Parish (LC II) and Women Councils and Committees (Village to National Level) on June 22, 2026.
The National Women’s Council is a six-level structure that brings women together from the village and parish levels up to the sub-county, district and national levels.
The council works to mobilise and unite women while encouraging them to take an active role in Uganda’s social, political and economic development.
At the top of this structure is the national chairperson, who provides leadership and coordinates a network of women leaders across the country.
Acheng said that her experience in diplomacy, including her previous posting in Canada and her current assignment in the Bahamas gave her the experience and skills needed to lead the council.
“My experience has exposed me to different communities, institutions and people both at home and internationally. It has strengthened my understanding of diplomacy, leadership, negotiation and national service. I will bring that experience to the National Women Council,” she said.
Aceng pledged to build a more inclusive council that listens to and responds to the needs of women across the country.
Aceng was declared persona non grata by the Canadian government in August 2024 following a confrontation with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).
She said that she will work to enhance participation of women in national development and decision making.
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