The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has called on female police officers to build resilience, confidence, and continuously develop themselves to take up leadership opportunities within the Uganda Police Force.

Speaking as Chief Guest at the 3rd Annual Female Police Officers Conference held at Police Headquarters in Naguru, Justice Abodo emphasized that true empowerment goes beyond increasing numbers.

She stressed the need for deliberate support to enable more women to rise into leadership positions and influence policy and decision-making.

“Without deliberate support, many women may remain excluded from leadership spaces,” she said.

The conference, organized by the Department of Gender and Women Affairs in collaboration with UN Women, was held under the theme: “Empowering Female Police Leadership for Gender-Responsive and Inclusive Policing.”

Adekemi Ndieli, Deputy Country Representative at UN Women, called for bold collective action to advance women’s leadership and reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to supporting the Uganda Police Force through training and capacity building.

AIGP Hadijah Namutebi, Director of Welfare, Production and Sports, challenged female officers to increase their visibility and participation in decision-making.

She called for transparent promotion systems based on merit, alongside stronger mentorship and training.

Representing the Inspector General of Police, AIGP Jesse Kamunanwire encouraged female officers to build strong support networks and develop practical strategies to inspire change.

The conference brought together senior female officers, police management, UN Women representatives, and academics to discuss physical and mental health, family dynamics, personal growth, and challenges faced by women in policing.