The Executive Director's Message
Welcome to the official website of ACFODE!
For four decades, ACFODE has been at the forefront of advancing women’s rights, gender equality and inclusive development in Uganda. Founded on 19th November 1985, ACFODE emerged from a bold vision to create a platform through which women could organise, raise their voices, influence decisions and take collective action on the issues affecting their lives.
In 2025, we proudly marked our 40th Anniversary — an important milestone that offered us an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come, honour the women and men who have shaped our journey, and reflect on the work that still lies ahead. Our story over these four decades is ultimately a story of people: women who have stepped forward to lead, girls who have gained the confidence to pursue their aspirations, the men and boys that have been our allies, the development partners that worked with us over the years and communities that have challenged harmful social norms and the citizens who have used their voices to demand more equitable law, policies and services.
Since 1985, ACFODE has grown into a nationally recognised women’s rights organisation with a presence and impact across Uganda and beyond. Through our work, we have contributed to strengthening women’s leadership and political participation, influencing gender-responsive laws and policies, advancing women’s economic empowerment, promoting positive social and cultural change, and building the capacity of individuals, communities and institutions to champion gender equality.
Our has always been anchored in four interconnected pillars: Policy Advocacy and Research; Leadership Development, Transformative Social-Cultural Change, environmental sustainability, climate justice and Economic Empowerment. Central to our work is gender transformation, evidence generation, advocacy, capacity strengthening, community mobilisation and strategic partnerships to address the structural barriers that continue to limit the rights, opportunities and full participation of women and girls.
None of what we have achieved over the past 40 years would have been possible without the commitment of the women and communities we serve and the invaluable support of the founders, members, Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, development partners, civil society organisations, government institutions, cultural and religious leaders, the private sector, media and the several individuals who have walked this journey with us. To each of you, I extend my sincere gratitude.
As we enter our next chapter, we do so with renewed commitment and a clear understanding that while significant progress has been made, the journey towards substantive gender equality continues. We remain committed to building on our four decades of experience, strengthening partnerships, nurturing the next generation of women leaders, amplifying women, youth, girls’ voices and advancing solutions that create lasting change.
I invite you to explore our website and learn more about our programmes, our impact, our partnerships and the stories of the people and communities at the heart of our work, and explore how you contribute to social justice and transformation.
I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our programmes, impact, partnerships, and the inspiring stories of the people and communities at the heart of our work. Discover how you can join us in advancing social justice and contributing to lasting gender transformation.
Together, we can continue building “A just society where gender equality is a reality.”
Ms. Regina Bafaki
Executive Director
Action for Development (ACFODE)