Forum for women in democracy (FOWODE) is a non partisan Women’s organization operating in Uganda with its head office in Kampala. FOWODE grew out of the women’s caucus of the 1994-1995 Constituent Assembly (CA) that debated and passed the 1995 constitution. During the assembly, the women delegates used the caucus to increase their political clout, broaden the base of support for women’s issues and advocate for a gender sensitive constitution in all aspects. The success of the women’s caucus paved way for the formation of FOWODE as a non governmental organization to continue with what had been started in the CA and to provide women in leadership positions with an organized platform for learning, networking, sharing experiences and also advocating for gender equity and equality in decision making processes.   


FOWODE’s Objectives    

1.    To identify and implement strategies to increase women’s participation in all areas of decision making including the establishment of a research and training center of women’s leadership.
2.    To advocate for gender equality in government laws, policies and programmes.
3.    To provide a forum for women and other marginalized groups to influence public policy through dialogue and negotiation.
4.    To sensitize and educate women, people with disabilities, young people and other marginalized groups in society about their human and civic rights.   
5.    To encourage collaboration of women leaders in the eastern African sub region and internationally through information  exchange, seminars, workshops and conferences
6.    To cooperate with other women organizations in working towards the goal of gender equality.

FOWODE’s Beneficiaries and Stakeholders

The primary beneficiaries of FOWODE are women in politics or intending to join politics at the national and local levels, and from all political beliefs. Other beneficiaries include; young women and men, women not in politics but especially those operating at the grassroots, leaders of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and children. FOWODE is non-partisan and does not work for or recommend particular candidates for political office. Regarding the stakeholders, FOWODE has and works with different players including international CSOs, National CSOs, Government, Donors, the media, Elected representatives, Researchers and research institutions and individuals.