MP Olanya among 10 honoured for gender equality and social equity efforts

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Legislator Gilbert Olanya has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to gender equality, social inclusion, and community empowerment during the National Champion Advancing Inclusion Award 2026 ceremony held in Gulu City, Northern Uganda.

The Kilak North Member of Parliament was among ten distinguished Ugandans honoured as Gender Equality Champions during the prestigious awards ceremony organised at Acholi Inn Hotel on April 21, 2026, by Northhood Production Initiative, Gulu Community-Based Organisation and Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation, Uganda, with Support from Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation Sweden under Creative Partnerships Program Funded by Sweden Institute.

The National Champion Advancing Inclusion Award recognises individuals who have consistently promoted equality, inclusion, human rights, and social justice within their communities through advocacy, leadership, and practical action.

Other recognised champions included Mutabazi Eliya, Omondi Eric, Otim Walter, Ocan David, Inyani Leku Inyasious, Owila Kinyera Charles, Orach Samuel, Ochaka Godfrey, and Waigolo Timothy.

Speaking shortly after receiving the recognition, Hon. Dr Gilbert Olanya expressed gratitude and humility.

“I was truly grateful to be invited and honoured during this important event. I did not expect to receive an award, and I thank God for this recognition,” Olanya said.

He further emphasised the importance of raising both boys and girls with equal opportunities, respect, and responsibility, noting that sustainable community transformation can only be achieved through inclusive participation.

The organisers expressed deep appreciation to all partners, stakeholders, government leaders, community members, civil society organisations, media houses, cultural institutions, youth groups, and volunteers whose support contributed to the success of the initiative.

Achiro Margreth Sharon, Founder and Executive Director of Northhood Production Initiative, Gulu Community-Based Organisation, described the Men and Boys Inclusion Awards as a strategic intervention aimed at reducing gender-based violence and strengthening community harmony by recognising men and boys who actively champion equality and inclusion.

According to Achiro, the final ten champions were selected from a competitive pool of 24 nominees following a rigorous and transparent assessment process.

“All ten champions demonstrated leadership, courage, and commitment in promoting inclusion, equality, and positive social transformation within their communities. They are role models whose actions continue to inspire others,” she said.

Acholi Traditional dancers entertained the guests during awards, Photo by Claude Omona. (Photo by Claude Omona)

She added that the initiative seeks to build a growing national movement of champions committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and valued regardless of gender, age, or social background.

The selection and assessment process was conducted by a nine-member jury team drawn from Gulu City, Kitgum District, and Sweden to ensure professionalism, fairness, transparency, and credibility throughout the process.

Three jurors from Gulu City worked closely with Northhood Production Initiative Gulu under the leadership of Executive Director Achiro Margreth Sharon. Three jurors from Kitgum collaborated with Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation Uganda under the leadership of Executive Director Catherine Laker, while three jurors from Sweden represented Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation Sweden under the leadership of Gertrude Opira.

'Gender equality is key'

The 2026 awards specifically highlighted the importance of involving men and boys in gender equality advocacy and social transformation efforts.

Achiro noted that field experiences from communities across Northern Uganda revealed that many men and boys felt excluded from mainstream advocacy and empowerment programmes despite facing social, emotional, and economic challenges.

“Many boys and men have expressed concerns that they are often left behind in advocacy and empowerment initiatives. True inclusion means working together with women, girls, boys, and men to create healthier and more peaceful communities,” she explained.

By recognising influential male role models who actively support equality and inclusion, the initiative aims to strengthen positive masculinity, peaceful coexistence, and collective responsibility within communities.

Catherine Laker, Executive Director of Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation Uganda, emphasised that gender equality is not about competition between genders, but about fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.

“If there are opportunities, all genders should have equal access. If there are responsibilities at home or in society, they should also be shared fairly,” she said.

Dr Ocan Emmanuel Oloya, Coordinator at Jeremiah Lucas Opira Foundation Uganda, said recognising community role models has proven effective in transforming lives and inspiring others to embrace inclusion, respect, and social responsibility.

Chua East MP-elect Collins Okoya officiated as Chief Guest and applauded the organisers for conducting a transparent online nomination and assessment process.

He pledged continued support from the Acholi Parliamentary Group towards initiatives that promote social inclusion, gender equality, youth empowerment, and peaceful community development.

The National Champion Advancing Inclusion Award 2026 was organised under the theme: “Highlighting Gender Equality Champions Among Men and Boys to Accelerate Sustainable Development Goals in Uganda.”

The initiative continues to position Northern Uganda as a growing centre for community-driven advocacy, creativity, inclusion, and social transformation.