The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataaha Museveni, has received the prestigious International Women Icon Award 2025, conferred by Binary University of Management and Entrepreneurship, Malaysia, in recognition of her contributions to girls’ education, women empowerment, child welfare and community development.
The award was presented on Saturday November 22 at State House, Entebbe by Dr. Rohini Devi, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Founding Director of the Centre for Women Leadership at Binary University.
President Museveni Hails the First Lady’s Contribution
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni congratulated the First Lady, saying the honour reflects the impact of her decades-long service.
“I therefore congratulate Maama on this award, she deserves it,” the President said, praising the university for recognising her work.
He noted her crucial role in nurturing their family during the difficult years of the liberation struggle, when she raised their children single-handedly.
“She took all the burden and all the pressure, and she did it very well. I salute her for helping me to become eternal, looking after the children when I was away,” he said.
The President also commended her leadership qualities, describing her as highly gifted in home management, philanthropy, and value-based politics.
He cited her work with Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO) and her dedication to prayer, which he humorously noted had “recruited” him into daily devotion.
He further applauded her decision to serve as Minister for Karamoja Affairs, a posting he said many politicians had previously avoided.
Binary University Commends Janet Museveni’s Lifelong Service
Dr. Rohini Devi said the award celebrates the First Lady’s lifelong commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities.
“It is my distinguished honour to present this award to a woman who has tirelessly devoted herself to uplifting the marginalised and transforming lives across the nation,” she said.
Dr. Rohini highlighted Maama Janet’s founding role in UWESO and the Youth Forum, her advocacy for child welfare, and her efforts to support communities affected by conflict and HIV/AIDS.
First Lady: “This Award Is a Testament to God’s Goodness”
Receiving the award, the First Lady said she was humbled by the recognition and thanked Binary University for acknowledging her contribution to Uganda.
“This award is simply a testament to the goodness of the Lord in my life, as He alone enabled and empowered me to serve,” she said.
She reflected on moments from her life in exile, her experiences during the HIV/AIDS crisis, and her work in Karamoja, attributing her strength to faith and divine guidance.
She urged young Ugandans to embrace patriotism, hard work, and service.
“May this award inspire our young population to lay their own brick on the building called Uganda,” she said.
Government Officials Praise First Lady’s Leadership
Hon. John Chrysostom Muyingo, Minister of State for Higher Education, commended the First Lady’s “visionary leadership,” noting that her reforms have expanded learning opportunities and strengthened education delivery.
Professor Joseph Adaikalam, founder and Chancellor of Binary University, described her as an exceptional leader whose humility and compassion “continue to inspire the world.”
He noted that the International Women Icon Award is the university’s highest honour and is presented to only one person globally each year.
The event was attended by officials from Binary University, government representatives, and invited guests.
