KAMPALA UGANDA 04 MAY 2026— The GROW Project is challenging traditional gender stereotypes with a bold new message: empowering a woman is not a zero-sum game for men.
In its latest advocacy drive, the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project—a Government of Uganda initiative supported by the World Bank and the PSFU—is specifically addressing men. The campaign’s core message, “Supporting a woman’s choices does not reduce a man, it strengthens the family,” seeks to dismantle the fear that female economic independence comes at the expense of male influence.
By featuring women in non-traditional sectors—such as automotive mechanics—the GROW Project is visually and verbally pushing for a more inclusive definition of “strength.” The initiative argues that true leadership within a household is found in partnership rather than control.
The project highlights three pillars of collaborative growth: Listening: Validating women’s professional ambitions and insights, Respecting: Honoring the autonomy of women to make business decisions, and Building Together: Recognizing that two incomes and two sets of ideas create a more resilient household than one.
”Real strength is listening, respecting, and building together,” the campaign asserts. “Respecting women’s voices strengthens the whole family.”
Since its launch in March 2023, the GROW Project has maintained that the productivity of women-owned enterprises is the fastest route to national competitiveness. However, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development recognizes that without a supportive environment at home, even the most talented female entrepreneurs face an uphill battle.
By framing support for women as a “family-first” strategy, the project aims to turn men into active stakeholders in the success of female-led businesses.
Joining the Movement
The GROW Project continues to offer extensive support for women looking to scale their businesses and for families looking to grow together. Citizens can get involved by:
Consulting Local Experts: Visit your District or City GROW Project Focal Person for guidance on business resources.
Accessing Support: The official Toll-Free line (0800307777) is available for information on grants, training, and project updates.
The message is clear: when Ugandan men and women build together, the entire nation grows. Shared respect isn’t just a social value—it’s a smart economic strategy.
