2024, the Babishai team has been travelling Uganda, collecting stories of women that have shaped their communities, transformed the educational systems in their home areas and reaffirmed the belief that women are at the helm of positive change i many spheres.

    This is a village in Nankokori, Eastern Uganda, and a harvest.

Hoima Central Market in Western Uganda, Happy Rachel , a leading entrepreneur of Hoima ,with Babishai’s George Gumikiriza

Using poetry to shape the narrative that celebrates Ugandan women, in July and August the Babishai team travelled to various parts of Kampala, Arua and  Ocoko in Northwestern Uganda, to Nankokori village Eastern Uganda and to Hoima in Western Uganda, listening to the heartbeat of the villages and to the stories under the full moon, learning more about how women have built and changed lives.

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Hon. Rhoda Kalema, known as Uganda’s Mother of Parliament.  Her daughter Dr. Gladys Zikusoka in red and Gladys’  son, Ndhego Zikusoka. In gold is classical pianist Louise Nakayenga and Beverley N Nsengiyunva in purple.

 

Lucy Ofuti by her coffee farm in Ocoko, Arua

The compilation of these stories will culminate into a poetry anthology on the lives of Ugandan women. managed by Babishai, it is supported by Trust Indigenous Culture and Health (TICAH) , through the Braid Arts and Culture Fund.

The Babishai Niwe Poetry Foundation has embarked on a project celebrating women of Uganda. The idea commenced last year in 2023, as a poetry collection idea. With resources pulled together and with a new generation of ideas, it is going to be a unique and worthwhile celebration.

Beverley N Nsengiyunva and Jackie Asiimwe (right)

Amongst those whom we shall be raising our glasses towards through poetry, is Jacqueline Asiimwe, who launched her book, early July 2024. The book, titled, ‘Facing Mountains,’ is a symbolic non-fictional account of her own feats of conquering six mountains. Each physical feat raised her grit towards much more.

Lillian Nabaggala, another iconic Ugandan woman whose journey through dance has broken many ceilings and raised a platform for various art forms through dance and film.

Esther Kalenzi, who, through 40 days and 40 smiles, supports hundreds of vulnerable children through education and health initiatives.

This is an inspiring year where Babishai reaches the hearts of people, across Uganda and Africa.

Join us on thsisremarkable journey.