Chairperson, UHRC, Marriam Wangadya. Her speech was delivered by Commissioner, Crispin Kaheru
The Chairperson, Uganda Human Rights Commission, Mariam Wangadya, has said that the Commission will not rest until human rights are respected in every home, school, hospital, workplace, and government office.
Wangadya made the remarks on Thursday at the national stakeholder consultative conference on the national action plan on human rights at Golf View Hotel in Entebbe.
“Let me dare add that this is not just another meeting—it is a defining moment for Uganda’s human rights journey. We are here to take stock of our progress, confront challenges, and set a clear course for the future. The Uganda Human Rights Commission, which I am here to represent, stands at the heart of this effort. Our mandate, rooted in Article 51 of the Constitution, is to promote and protect human rights. We do this not just in words but through action—ensuring that every Ugandan enjoys their freedoms as enshrined in our laws and international commitments. I must say, the National Action Plan on Human Rights is a game-changer. It is Uganda’s blueprint for embedding human rights in governance, development, and everyday life. It aligns with our Vision 2040, the National Development Plan, and our obligations under regional and international treaties. More than just a document, the NAP for Human Rights is a commitment—a promise to make Uganda a rights-respecting nation – and I believe we are facing in that direction,” said Wangadya in a statement read by Commissioner Crispin Kaheru.
The journey to where we are, Wangadya added, “At this moment, it has been long.”
“When Uganda underwent its first Universal Periodic Review at the UN Human Rights Council in 2011, we pledged to develop a National Action Plan for Human Rights. But for more than a decade, the process stalled. The commission refused to let this pledge fade. We pushed, engaged, and mobilized. Some of you here will recall that initially, we partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Later, we worked closely with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to revive and accelerate the process. We didn’t just observe—we actively shaped the discussions, held consultations, and played a central role in crafting both the National Action Plan on Human Rights and the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. Finally, after years of advocacy, we are here today, validating a plan that will reshape Uganda’s human rights landscape.The NAP-HR is not just for policymakers. It is for every Ugandan. It is a tool to ensure that human rights are not optional—they are embedded in governance, economic policies, and everyday life. In fact, let me add, for this plan to work, we must ensure that no one is left behind. Minority communities, indigenous groups, and marginalized populations must be at the center of human rights policies. Discrimination must end. Equal access to justice, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities must be a reality for all. We also must strengthen our legal aid so that every Ugandan, regardless of status, has access to legal protection and redress,” said Wangadya.
According to Wangadya, the success of the NAP-HR does not rest on one institution.
“It requires all hands on deck. Equally so, the government must allocate adequate resources for implementation. Without funding, a plan like this only remains as words on paper. I want to see civil society organizations, academia, and the media push for accountability, track progress, and amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard. I want to see the private sector integrate human rights into corporate policies and business practices. Respecting rights is not just good ethics—it is good business. I want to see Ugandans play an active role—speaking out, reporting violations, and holding duty bearers accountable. Human rights are not just for institutions; they belong to the people.”
She adds that the laws and policies alone will not transform Uganda.
“We need a culture of human rights. That means educating young people about their rights and responsibilities, embedding human rights in schools, workplaces, and communities, and ensuring that respect for rights is part of our national identity. This is not an impossible dream. We know of countries that once struggled with human rights and have now turned their situations around. We too can do the same—if we stay committed. Today, we are not just consulting and validating a document. We are shaping our future. We are deciding what kind of country we want to leave for the next generation. The Uganda Human Rights Commission will not rest until human rights are respected in every home, school, hospital, workplace, and government office. We will work with you, with the government, and with every partner committed to this cause. We are optimistic that together, we can make Uganda a nation where human rights are not a privilege for a few but a reality for all,” Wangadya concluded.
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