# WOUGNET ## Posts - [My experience from the 2017 African School on Internet Governance](https://wougnet.org/my-experience-from-the-2017-african-school-on-internet-governance/): I was lucky to be part of the participants in the African school of internet governance in 2017. The orientation was of high academic knowledge and sharing/learning where I was able to interact with different personalities from different countries. Most inspiring was the fact that women played the biggest role in this training. At the […] - [Advancing a gender-responsive approach to ICT policy and decision making](https://wougnet.org/advancing-a-gender-responsive-approach-to-ict-policy-and-decision-making/): At the core of policy formulation and implementation processes lies the need to have diverse groups of stakeholders to make relevant input into the policymaking process. Policymaking is thus not only a preserve of the government, normally set within the framework of the top-bottom approach but rather the contemporary environment contends that for policy formulation […] - [Relating the Feminist Principles of the Internet to Women’s Rights Online](https://wougnet.org/relating-the-feminist-principles-of-the-internet-to-womens-rights-online/): On 26th October 2017, WOUGNET hosted a half-day National Local Level Conversation using the Feminist Principles of the Internet (FPIs). The second of its kind since the inception of a UNFGE funded project on “Increasing women’s decision making and influence in Internet Governance and ICT policy for the realization of women’s rights in Africa”, this particular activity was […] - [Life-changing skills that never left women the same again](https://wougnet.org/life-changing-skills-that-never-left-women-the-same-again/): As we go on to celebrate the Month of the Woman Entrepreneur (MoWE), WOUGNET celebrates the success and achievements of her women under the Socio-Economic Program.  Awino is a young lady who is a direct beneficiary of the use of beads to make bags, purses, necklaces, earrings and bangles under the WOUGNET Skills training. WOUGNET […] - [Revisit to resist: Histories of the movement to end gender-based violence](https://wougnet.org/revisit-to-resist-histories-of-the-movement-to-end-gender-based-violence/): Memory is resistance. When your story is silenced or challenged, remembering the truth is critical. And when we document our experiences, we pass on the lessons we learned. For 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (25 November – 10 December), Take Back the Tech! wants to look back (and forward) at the movement to […] - [Press conference on the Month of the Woman Entrepreneur (MOWE) 2017](https://wougnet.org/press-conference-on-the-month-of-the-woman-entrepreneur-mowe-2017/): The Month of the Woman Entrepreneur (MOWE) is a global event and in Uganda is celebrated in the month of November annually since 2006 when it was introduced by the International Labor Organization-Women Entrepreneurship Development and Gender Equity (ILO-WEDGE) project. Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL) in partnership with ILO and the Government of Uganda […] - [Using Art Pieces to Understand structurally silenced women](https://wougnet.org/using-art-pieces-to-understand-structurally-silenced-women/): Structurally silenced women including young women, feminists, activists and Women Human Rights Defenders among others live a complex life in Uganda and need to feel safer and able to advocate for their rights freely.WOUGNET held an art conversation on 19th December 2022, where female artists worked with structurally silenced women who had conversations that enabled […] - [January 2023: How to Fix Google Chrome’s Out-of-Memory Error](https://wougnet.org/january-2023-how-to-fix-google-chromes-out-of-memory-error/): Does Google Chrome show an out-of-memory error when you try to launch a website or web page? If so, your browser may be using up all your computer’s resources, leaving nothing for your sites to use. You have a few ways to get around this problem, and we’ll show you how. As you may already know, Chrome […] - [Twitter Chat: Creating ICT-related Impact on grassroots communities as a Result of the SMILE Project  ](https://wougnet.org/twitter-chat-creating-ict-related-impact-on-grassroots-communities-as-a-result-of-the-smile-project/): Introduction The SMILE Project, which stands for “Strengthening Women’s Livelihoods and Magnifying Resilience to COVID-19 Emergency by Promoting Effective Use of Digital Technologies in Uganda’’ funded by APC aims to create ICT-related impact on grassroots communities by providing them with access to affordable and innovative technology solutions and skills. The project seeks to bridge the […] - [NVIWODA builds resilience for girls and young mothers; victims of the COVID-19 lockdown by enhancing their skills.](https://wougnet.org/nviwoda-builds-resilience-for-girls-and-young-mothers-victims-of-the-covid-19-lockdown-by-enhancing-their-skills/): Figure 1: NVIWODA builds resilience and hopes for girls and young mothers; victims of COVID-19 lockdown empowering girls in leadership and management skills The story of Nakamya Annet I first met Ms. Nyarwa in 2006, when she was invited to Kabulasoke by the Lubaale project of which I was a member.  She trained our group […] - [Call for Proposal Applications for a Seed Grant Under Our Voice, Our Futures project](https://wougnet.org/call-for-proposal-applications-for-a-seed-grant-under-our-voice-our-futures-project/): Call for Proposal Applications for a Seed Grant Under Our Voice, Our Futures project Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) under Our Voices, Our Futures (OVOF) Project is Seeking Proposals from Female Ugandans to Develop Feminist Tech Interventions for Structurally Silenced Women. Find the link to the proposal guide here Find the link to the proposal template here - [Vacancy Announcement: Project Officer - CLOSED](https://wougnet.org/vacancy-announcement-project-officer-closed/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is looking for a dynamic and self motivated individual to join the WOUGNET team. Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) in partnership with SOS Faim is implementing a new project in the Rwenzori region of Uganda.  WOUGNET is a non-governmental organization initiated in May 2000 by several women’s organizations in Uganda to develop the use […] - [September 2022: Migrating from Mac to PC (Part1) Welcome to PC](https://wougnet.org/september-2022-migrating-from-mac-to-pc-part1-welcome-to-pc/): This is it; you’re making the jump from Mac* to PC, and you’ve got questions. This in-depth guide has everything you need to know about making the switch from Mac to Windows* PC. We’ve got you covered with guidance on converting and transferring your files as well as setting up your new experience. It’s simpler […] - [August 2022: Low Battery Settings in iPhone](https://wougnet.org/august-2022-low-battery-settings-in-iphone/): We all know the iPhone drill: a “Low Battery. 20% battery… We all know the iPhone drill: a “Low Battery. 20% battery remaining” alert, followed by options to tap Low Power Mode or deny reality by tapping Close. Apple added Low Power Mode as part of iOS9 in order to save battery, so should battery-conscious iPhone users just […] - [How the COVID-19 Pandemic has Impacted Digital Transformation for Women-led Organisations?](https://wougnet.org/how-the-covid-19-pandemic-has-impacted-digital-transformation-for-women-led-organisations/): Caption: WOUGNET’s visit to one of its Member Organisation Integrating digital technology into all areas, especially for women-led organisations has fundamentally changed how they operate and deliver value to communities. With the growing trends, digital technologies are widely perceived as a promising means to promote access to information for organisations. On the other hand, the […] - [July 2022: How to stop websites from disturbing you](https://wougnet.org/july-2022-how-to-stop-websites-from-disturbing-you/): How to block distracting websites Use a work-only browser.Get a work-only profile.Activate flight mode. Use a browser app/extension. Use PC or mobile app. use a dedicated browser for workThe Internet is full of useful information, but accessing the Internet can waste hours of your productivity. What started as a glimpse of your favorite sites and […] - [June 2022: 9 Windows 11 Features That'll Totally Change How You Use the OS](https://wougnet.org/june-2022-9-windows-11-features-thatll-totally-change-how-you-use-the-os/): Whether you’re using your computer for work or your personal life, it’s a good time to master some of Windows 11’s productivity features. These built-in tricks can help you do everything from setting up Taskbar shortcuts to saving battery power.  Microsoft isn’t typically as upfront about its hidden features in the same way that Apple tends to […] - [Freedom of Opinion and Expression Online is a Human Right even with Disinformation in the Digital Age](https://wougnet.org/freedom-of-opinion-and-expression-online-is-a-human-right-even-with-disinformation-in-the-digital-age/): According to the mandate established by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, a special rapporteur is expected to gather information relating to violations of the right on freedom of opinion and expression, threats or use of violence and perception or intimidation of people seeking to exercise or promote the right to FoOE. As an organization that […] - [The Role of Social Media: An enabler in Voicing Women’s concerns in the Digital Age](https://wougnet.org/the-role-of-social-media-an-enabler-in-voicing-womens-concerns-in-the-digital-age/): WOUGNET being an organization that embraces the significance and impact of ICT in empowering women for sustainable Development, it invests in managing its social media platforms as a crucial factor in amplifying its mission and vision. Throughout the first quarter, WOUGNET has used its social media platforms as a tool to advocate for the digital […] - [Championing Peace and Security by Women and Youth during Uganda’s 2021 General Elections](https://wougnet.org/championing-peace-and-security-by-women-and-youth-during-ugandas-2021-general-elections/): As a member of the 2021 Women’s Situation Room (WSR) steering Committee, WOUGNET played a critical role in mobilizing women and youth in Kampala to ensure their active participation in promoting peace before, during, and after elections. The WSR is a non-partisan mechanism that was launched in the 2011 elections in Liberia and later Senegal, Sierra Leone, […] - [How the Proposed Digital Service Tax Threatens Women’s Right of Access to Information](https://wougnet.org/how-the-proposed-digital-service-tax-threatens-womens-right-of-access-to-information/): For any economy and its people to thrive, a fair and just taxation system must be in existence. On November 14th, 2020, the Nile Post, a popular news tabloid reported that the government of the Republic of Uganda through the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development intends to levy a new digital service tax on […] - [Girls in ICT Day 2020 Celebration: What does it mean for Girls in Tech](https://wougnet.org/girls-in-ict-day-2020-celebration-what-does-it-mean-for-girls-in-tech/): The International Girls in ICT day was celebrated on April 23, 2020, with the theme “Inspiring the Next Generations.” One would ask, what is being done to inspire the next generations of young women and girls to embrace Tech? Information and Communications Technology [ICT] is still a critical need for girls and women. As you […] - [What do you know about typosquatting?](https://wougnet.org/what-do-you-know-about-typosquatting/): What is typosquatting? Typosquatting, also called URL hijacking, a sting site, or a fake URL, is a form of cybersquatting, and possibly brandjacking which relies on mistakes such as typos made by Internet users when inputting a website address into a web browser. Should a user accidentally enter an incorrect website address, they may be led […] - [My Experience with Cherie Blair Foundation](https://wougnet.org/my-experience-getting-started-with-cherie-blair-foundation/): Cherie Blair Foundation (CBF) is a mentorship programme for women in business where young women entrepreneurs in Uganda and other countries are matched with mentors from different parts of the world under CBF aimed at enabling women in business gain more knowledge and skills on how best they can improve on their businesses based on […] - [Cultural Norms, Beliefs and Values: The Reconstruction of Stereotypes on Women](https://wougnet.org/cultural-norms-beliefs-and-values-the-reconstruction-of-stereotypes-on-women/): The saying goes, “behind every successful man, there is a woman” however many men are still blind about women’s values. Over the past decade, women have been restricted from a lot of opportunities. This has been constructed on cultural values, norms, beliefs plus the prevailing stereotypes on women. For instance, globally women are believed to […] - [Youth Urged to Provide Evidence to Influence Public Policy](https://wougnet.org/youth-urged-to-provide-evidence-to-influence-public-policy/): On the 21st march 2019, during the youth 4 polciy public dialogue and the launch of the second cohort fellowship that was held at Sheraton hotel in Kampala by KAS Uganda in partnership with Centre for Development Alternatives (CDA) and Public Policy Institute (IPP), offered a platform for 8 youth4policy fellows to present and discuss their […] - [The centrality of internet rights in the contemporary digital landscape in Africa](https://wougnet.org/the-centrality-of-internet-rights-in-the-contemporary-digital-landscape-in-africa/): The proliferation of Information and Communications Technologies in the global South and theopportunities that these tools have presented in transforming the world particularly in Africa is onethat can be described as phenomenal. The euphoria that has been encapsulated within the term‘Africa Rising’ according to researchers is attributed to Africa’s expanding middle class and thedevelopment of […] - [How farmers can benefit from Agricultural Financing](https://wougnet.org/how-farmers-can-benefit-from-agricultural-financing/): According to the World Bank, demand for food is estimated to increase by 70% by 2050 and at least USD$80 Billion will be needed in annual investments to meet this demand. A huge chunk of these billions is expected to come from the private sector and in particular the banking sector.  Some governments and farmers […] - [Taking Libraries closer to Communities](https://wougnet.org/taking-libraries-closer-to-communities/): Copy & Paste or TypeOn July 7th 2017, WOUGNET participated in the March for the launch of the Mobile Library Project. The project consists of a Mobile Library, a truck with a library in the back, taking books to 10 different schools and communities around Kampala. The project is an initiative of the Forum for […] - [Women discuss policy issues to inform Uganda’s REDD+ strategy development.](https://wougnet.org/women-discuss-policy-issues-to-inform-ugandas-redd-strategy-development/): In March 2010, Uganda embarked on the preparation of its national process for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, fostering the role of forests in conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (REDD+) through Readiness phase which is part of Uganda’s actions that contribute to the mitigation of climate change […] - [What you should know about child marriage](https://wougnet.org/what-you-should-know-about-child-marriage/): Child marriage is an issue that affects girls and women all around the world. It impacts all the aspects of life: Health, physiological state, psychological state, economic situations, etc. In Uganda, the prevalence for girls marrying under 18 years old is over 40%, and marrying under 15 years old is about 10% (Joy for Children […] - [Empowering women with Digital Skills and Education](https://wougnet.org/empowering-women-with-digital-skills-and-education/): Knowledge is created when one has access to information including access to laws that provide for the right to access information. Without access to crucial information, citizens, especially marginalized groups, will not secure equality in this ever changing digital age. The latter is true in any society in the world; knowledge is power. In Uganda, […] - [Hazardous Abortions in Uganda: Systemic flaws costing thousands of lives](https://wougnet.org/hazardous-abortions-in-uganda-systemic-flaws-costing-thousands-of-lives/): The 85,000 women in Uganda who annually experience severe or fatal health complications from poorly performed abortions(Singh:2006), prove that regardless of the political or religious boundaries surrounding unplanned and unwanted pregnancy, women all over the country continue to find themselves in the dangerous and desperate position of seeking professional and often nonprofessional medical aid in […] - [Gender disparities within business entrepreneurs in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/gender-disparities-within-business-entrepreneurs-in-uganda/): When it comes to entrepreneurship, Uganda is getting more and more known for its innovative projects[1]. Through their bold initiatives, women are among the key actors contributing to the enhancement of the country’s entrepreneurial sector. Given such dynamics, Ugandan women’s voices in business and entrepreneurship should be given greater attention. Indeed, there are still factors […] - [WOUGNET hosts DOT’s ReachUp! Program](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-hosts-dots-reachup-program/): Digital opportunity trust is a Canadian international NGO supporting a global network of  DOT organizations leading economic and educational change in countries throughout Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. ReachUp! is DOT’s foundation economic program. This program trains university graduates, called DOT interns, to deliver technology, business, and workforce readiness skills training in communities […] - [Fostering Civic Participation and Public Accountability through use of ICTs: East Africa](https://wougnet.org/fostering-civic-participation-and-public-accountability-through-use-of-icts-east-africa/): The Democratization process of the East African Countries remains elusive as Civil and Political actors of Governments and top leadership remain major impediments in addressing the underlying problems of social evils such as corruption, poor governance, declining press freedom, and lack of respect for fundamental rights and freedom of its Citizens. The East African Countries […] - [Gender gap in ICT and Online gender based violence in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/gender-gap-in-ict-and-online-gender-based-violence-in-uganda/): The Role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Poverty Reduction is widely recognized. In particular, ICTs represent an important tool for women empowerment as they give women more opportunities to start businesses, look for jobs, learn about their rights, report violence, educate themselves and acquire knowledge to improve their families’ daily lives. Women’s access to ICTs […] - [Internet Shutdown of Social Media in Uganda threats to online expression](https://wougnet.org/internet-shutdown-of-social-media-in-uganda-threats-to-online-expression/): Ugandans many of whom are firm users of online expression platforms woke up on polling day to realize all their social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Whatsapp were disconnected. The shameful and unwarranted shutdown of social media platforms by Telecom companies were on the orders of Uganda’s communications regulator, the Uganda Communications Commission […] - [Can the internet be used as a tool for peace and development in Uganda?](https://wougnet.org/can-the-internet-be-used-as-a-tool-for-peace-and-development-in-uganda/): 26th August 2016 saw the 10th Uganda Internet Governance Forum (UIGF) take place at the Golf course Hotel in Kampala. The UIGF is held annually and this year it was organized by the Internet Society – Uganda Chapter (ISOC – ug) in collaboration with CIPESA under the theme “Internet as a tool for peace and […] - [May 2022: How To Listen To Twitter Spaces From Any Device](https://wougnet.org/may-2022-how-to-listen-to-twitter-spaces-from-any-device/): As one of Twitter’s newest features, Twitter Spaces lets you listen to live audio chats. Anyone with a Twitter account can join a Twitter Space, and you can do it on different devices. Once you’ve joined a Twitter Space, you can interact with other members of that Space, pin Tweets, turn on captions, and engage […] - [March 2022: Microsoft Teams Walkie Talkie App](https://wougnet.org/march-2022-microsoft-teams-walkie-talkie-app/): Did you know that Microsoft Teams offers a Walkie Talkie app? The Walkie Talkie app in Teams provides instant push-to-talk (PTT) communication for your team and is now available on Android & iOS. Walkie Talkie allows users to connect with their team using the same underlying channels they’re already members of. Only users who connect […] - [February 2022: DHS Issues Cybersecurity Warning Due to Conflict in Ukraine](https://wougnet.org/february-2022-dhs-issues-cybersecurity-warning-due-to-conflict-in-ukraine/): As Russian military forces escalate attacks in Ukraine, The Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has issued a “Shields Up” Event According to CISA “While there are no specific or credible cyber threats to the U.S. homeland at this time, Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, which has involved cyber-attacks on the Ukrainian government and […] - [January 2022: How To Prevent Cyber Attacks](https://wougnet.org/january-2022-how-to-prevent-cyber-attacks/): In our first tech tip for 2022, we are continuing to review our top recommendations for protecting your organization against cyber threats Last month we talked about how to help reduce the potential for a cyber intrusion. Another important front-line of protection against cyber threats are your employees. The better educated your organization is about […] - [December 2021: Tech tips to get you started for the new year](https://wougnet.org/december-2021-tech-tips-to-get-you-started-for-the-new-year/): 2021 has come and gone, and 2022 is already here! The start of a new year is a perfect time to have a fresh start and build new healthy habits that help improve your day-to-day. We’re all for the usual resolutions like eating healthier and exercising, but there are also quick tasks you can do […] - [How could Data help Social Justice? Moving beyond Data Governance in Africa and Latin America.](https://wougnet.org/how-could-data-help-social-justice-moving-beyond-data-governance-in-africa-and-latin-america/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) organized a Side Session on May 6th, 2022 during the Online Global Digital Development Forum (GDDF) 2022 to share perspectives on the interaction of data and social justice, informed by the data justice research conducted in Bolivia, Cameroon and Uganda by Internet Bolivia Foundation, AfroLeadership, and WOUGNET respectively with financial support from the Alan Turing Institute […] - [Advancing Gender Equality through Big Data in Sub-Saharan Africa](https://wougnet.org/advancing-gender-equality-through-big-data-in-sub-saharan-africa-2/): The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted by all United Nations member states in 2015 has 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with Goal 5 being gender equality. Africa and the rest of the world are targeting to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls by 2030. According to the Office of the Special Advisor on Gender Issues […] - [May 2022: How To Listen To Twitter Spaces From Any Device](https://wougnet.org/may-2022-how-to-listen-to-twitter-spaces-from-any-device-2/): As one of Twitter’s newest features, Twitter Spaces lets you listen to live audio chats. Anyone with a Twitter account can join a Twitter Space, and you can do it on different devices. Once you’ve joined a Twitter Space, you can interact with other members of that Space, pin Tweets, turn on captions, and engage […] - [APRIL 2022: What Content Management System to use or consider check the rank here under](https://wougnet.org/april-2022-what-content-management-system-to-use-or-consider-check-the-rank-here-under/): What is a CMS Platform? A CMS platform (content management system platform) is a piece of software that allows you to easily manage content and create a website. Normally, web pages are written in HTML, JavaScript, and CSS programming languages. If you were to build a website without a CMS platform, then you would need to […] - [ Awareness creation](https://wougnet.org/awareness-creation/): “Our lives begin to end when we become silent on things that matter; SPEAK UP!” is one of the very many messages that have been shared on our various social media platforms courtesy of the internet data given to us per month! After being assured of this offer from WOUGNET, Warm Hearts Foundation came up […] - [March 2022: Microsoft Teams Walkie Talkie App](https://wougnet.org/march-2022-microsoft-teams-walkie-talkie-app-2/): Did you know that Microsoft Teams offers a Walkie Talkie app? The Walkie Talkie app in Teams provides instant push-to-talk (PTT) communication for your team and is now available on Android & iOS. Walkie Talkie allows users to connect with their team using the same underlying channels they’re already members of. Only users who connect […] - [February 2022: DHS Issues Cybersecurity Warning Due to Conflict in Ukraine](https://wougnet.org/february-2022-dhs-issues-cybersecurity-warning-due-to-conflict-in-ukraine-2/): As Russian military forces escalate attacks in Ukraine, The Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has issued a “Shields Up” Event According to CISA “While there are no specific or credible cyber threats to the U.S. homeland at this time, Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, which has involved cyber-attacks on the Ukrainian government and […] - [WhatsApp and its Encryption Chat Backup on the Cloud: Secure Messaging Applications](https://wougnet.org/whatsapp-and-its-encryption-chat-backup-on-the-cloud-secure-messaging-applications-2/): My experience and that of the participants during the digital security training raises questions on how secure messaging applications are, majorly on day four where we discussed secure communications, understanding examples of chat applications and the safety functionalities such as that of WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, and others and identified which ones were safe and not […] - [My Experience during WOUGNET’s Online Safety and Digital Security Capacity Building Workshop](https://wougnet.org/my-experience-during-wougnets-online-safety-and-digital-security-capacity-building-workshop/): In the world we live in today, with every sphere of life being engulfed by digitalization, either directly or indirectly, it’s only possible that one can thrive within the space when aware of the risks around them, fully equipped with digital skills and digital security tools. Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), a non-governmental organization that […] - [The Significance of Digital Safety Training for Women in Uganda during the COVID-19 Pandemic](https://wougnet.org/the-significance-of-digital-safety-training-for-women-in-uganda-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-2/): Violence against women both online and offline is a violation of human rights, with devastating physical and psychological impacts on both survivors and victims. As COVID-19 continues to rip the economies apart, it has also indirectly led to an exponential rise in the instances of online gender-based violence. The standard operating procedures (SOPs) introduced by […] - [The Dangers in Digital Security that the Majority Have Chosen to Overlook](https://wougnet.org/the-dangers-in-digital-security-that-the-majority-have-chosen-to-overlook-2/): WOUGNET is a non-governmental organization that promotes and supports the use of ICTs by women and women organizations in Uganda so that they can take advantage of the opportunities presented by ICTs in order to effectively address national and local problems of sustainable development.  Over the last decades, there has been widespread use of the […] - [Digital Security, A Must-Have Skill for OGBV Extenuation](https://wougnet.org/digital-security-a-must-have-skill-for-ogbv-extenuation/): Gratefully appreciative of the partnership with Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) and Digital Human Rights Lab (DHRLab), I sincerely thank you for the opportunity and confidence exhibited in me while the one-week digital security training took the centre stage.  End-user training, which varies dramatically in scope and length, typically convenes some mix of human rights […] - [The significance of Digital inclusion to Economic development](https://wougnet.org/the-significance-of-digital-inclusion-to-economic-development/): According to an article by R Bahrini 2019, it’s very apparent that access to a meaningful internet and technology has played an immense role in promoting and enhancing the social and economic growth of developing countries and has further facilitated their inclusion into the global economy. Access to the internet and Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) has […] - [Gender Gaps in Agricultural Productivity in Uganda: The Causes and Solutions](https://wougnet.org/gender-gaps-in-agricultural-productivity-in-uganda-the-causes-and-solutions/): The agricultural sector remains critical to the local and regional economies across Uganda. Being the basis for food security and an important source of employment, particularly for women. Yet, studies consistently find that female farmers have lower rates of agricultural productivity than male farmers. Based on original research conducted by UN women in countries like Ethiopia, Malawi, […] - [Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) at RightsCon 2021](https://wougnet.org/women-of-uganda-network-wougnet-at-rightscon-2021/): RightsCon is the world’s leading summit on human rights in the digital age brought to you by Access Now. This year (2021), the 10th Anniversary of RightsCon is happening from Monday, June 7 to Friday, June 11, 2021, bringing together business leaders, human rights defenders, government representatives, technologists, and journalists from around the world to […] - [The Usage of Digital Tools for Connecting and Empowering Girls and Women](https://wougnet.org/the-usage-of-digital-tools-for-connecting-and-empowering-girls-and-women/): There are several efforts being made toward improving gender equality. Today, basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) knowledge is one of the most desired skills on the labor market. According to research carried out by European parliament, ICT is a growing sector that creates 120,000 new jobs every year. Women made up 16.7% of the nearly 8.2 million employed as […] - [Identifying Theft on the Internet](https://wougnet.org/identifying-theft-on-the-internet/): The internet is a global network of billions of computers and other electronic devices. With the Internet, it’s possible to access almost any information, communicate with anyone else in the world, and do much more. The history of the internet has gradually evolved from 1967 and the internet according to Howard et al, (2002) has become a daily necessity. In Uganda the first Internet Service Providers […] - [Gendered impact of COVID-19 on businesses: The case of women in the informal sector in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/gendered-impact-of-covid-19-on-businesses-the-case-of-women-in-the-informal-sector-in-uganda/): While the impact of COVID-19 outbreak on businesses varies depending on the industry, there’s one group that has been hit particularly hard in the world; women-owned small-scale businesses. A recent survey carried out by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce indicates how businesses have been impacted by the pandemic. For instance, the number of female-owned the business has fallen from 60% in January to […] - [Together for a Better Internet: Safer Internet Day 2021](https://wougnet.org/together-for-a-better-internet-safer-internet-day-2021/): Internet penetration stood at 59.5% with 4.66 billion people using the Internet around the world. This is according to the Digital 2021 Global Overview Report which also states that the number of social media users is now equivalent to more than 53 percent of the world’s total population. Uganda has 12.6 million Internet users with an Internet […] - [The Impact of Online Gender-Based Violence on Women’s Mental Health in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/the-impact-of-online-gender-based-violence-on-womens-mental-health-in-uganda/): While online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) has become a norm in this 21st century where the internet is a part of our fate, its toll on the mental health of women who are victims is immeasurable. Many studies have provided facts on the impact of the general Gender-Based Violence on women however little has been documented about […] - [Digital Empowerment and Computer Skills Training: Enhancing Response to COVID-19 and Gender-Based Violence by WOUGNET Members in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/digital-empowerment-and-computer-skills-training-enhancing-response-to-covid-19-and-gender-based-violence-by-wougnet-members-in-uganda/): We as Warm Hearts were very privileged to host Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) staff at our office. We are glad that we got an opportunity to be trained among the many local women rights organizations in Uganda. It was a life changing experience and opportunity for our staff to be trained by WOUGNET on video conferencing technology especially Zoom and Google […] - [Why ending Body-Shaming should be at the Top of Every Women’s right online activist’s Agenda](https://wougnet.org/why-ending-body-shaming-should-be-at-the-top-of-every-womens-right-online-activists-agenda/): Background In 2013, Lindsey Kukunda the Founder of Her Empire (Not Your Body), a feminist organization in Uganda called out a popular bar in Kampala, for being racist on social media. She received mixed reactions from the public for having stood up against the bar’s racist culture. However, on one occasion while she was hanging […] - [Women Rights Online Matters: Why it is important to close the Gender Digital Gap in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/women-rights-online-matters-why-it-is-important-to-close-the-gender-digital-gap-in-uganda/): Introduction The global digital gender divide is keeping hundreds of millions of women and girls from fully participating and contributing online with almost half of the world population still having no access to the internet. The number of women using the internet globally is 48% compared to 58% of men implying that there is a 17% internet user gap. […] - [Tackling Gender-Based Violence in the Cyber Space #StopOnlineGBVUG](https://wougnet.org/tackling-gender-based-violence-in-the-cyber-space-stoponlinegbvug/): Do you know about Online Gender-Based Violence? Well, for some this is hard to even imagine, for others, it awakens trauma that has long been silenced while for many it is a dreadful uncertainty that they endeavor to be conscious about each time they use a tech gadget. Online Gender-Based Violence is any act of […] - [Online Gender-Based Violence: How can we tackle the harm on victims/survivors in Uganda?](https://wougnet.org/online-gender-based-violence-how-can-we-tackle-the-harm-on-victims-survivors-in-uganda/): The line between online and offline Gender-Based Violence is so thin to the extent that the negative impact is most likely to cause similar trends of harm to the victims of such abuse. It is an undisputed fact that the Internet and any other forms of technology aid people to realize their online rights such as […] - [#AskforConsent Campaign: The Understanding of “Revenge Porn”](https://wougnet.org/askforconsent-campaign-the-understanding-of-revenge-porn/): In early 2020, Women of Uganda Network joined other digital human rights defenders from different parts of Uganda through the Ttaala program by Defend Defenders. Ttaala is a comprehensive skill building project for human rights defenders illuminating the world of digital tools and strategies through equipping different human rights defenders’ organization to survive and thrive defending human rights […] - [Not ‘revenge porn’: Non-consensual intimate imagery in Uganda.](https://wougnet.org/not-revenge-porn-non-consensual-intimate-imagery-in-uganda/): Non-consensual intimate images (NCII), more commonly known by the misnomer “revenge porn” refers to sexually explicit images and videos that are captured, published, or circulated without the consent of one or more persons in the frame. NCII is a systemic and societal problem and not only a limited matter of “revenge” – it ranges from […] - [Holistic security strategies and measures to address non-consensual intimate images (NCII)](https://wougnet.org/holistic-security-strategies-and-measures-to-address-non-consensual-intimate-images-ncii/): Non-consensual intimate images (NCII), commonly known by the misnomer “revenge porn” is on the rise in Uganda and Sub-Saharan African countries like Zimbabwe. Patriarchal norms and attitudes in society paired with increasing Internet access — over 42% of Uganda’s population is now online — has spurred this new form of gender-based violence commonly referred to as “technology-assisted […] - [The Implication of COVID-19 on Women's Internet Use in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/the-implication-of-covid-19-on-womens-internet-use-in-uganda/): The spread of COVID-19 has impacted the global economy and transformed the way we communicate, connect, and share information. As of 13th May 2020, according to Johns Hopkins University and Medicines, there were 4,247,709 COVID-19 confirmed cases and 291,334 deaths reported in 187 countries/regions. In Uganda, there were 126 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with no deaths […] - [Flattening the COVID-19 Pandemic Curve calls for a fight against Misinformation and Disinformation](https://wougnet.org/flattening-the-covid-19-pandemic-curve-calls-for-a-fight-against-misinformation-and-disinformation/): The quest to flatten the contagion curve through social distancing and lockdowns is a measure that every country has done or planning to do as the world is faced with the fight against the Novel Coronavirus. On 11th March 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic in a media briefing by Dr. Tedros Adhanom […] - [Online Violence Against Women & Girls is Still an Ignored Human Rights Violation in Uganda.](https://wougnet.org/online-violence-against-women-girls-is-still-an-ignored-human-rights-violation-in-uganda/): When one mentions online violence against women and girls, not so many eyebrows would be raised despite being on the rise and a threat to many women in the digital space. Sometimes referred to as Technology-assisted violence or cyber violence, its definition is still ambiguous and it’s still an evolving phenomenon globally. It’s usually an […] - [Recognize, Appreciate, and Celebrate Every Woman #EachforEqual](https://wougnet.org/recognize-appreciate-and-celebrate-every-woman-eachforequal/): On women’s day, we celebrate Women who have broken the glass ceiling, women who have made remarkable achievements in various sectors, Women who have made it in male-dominated spheres and Women who have proved to be role models. This recognition is justified. But what about the other women who take the shadow position? The Women […] - [The restriction of social networks through the social media tax: a violation of Human rights](https://wougnet.org/the-restriction-of-social-networks-through-the-social-media-tax-a-violation-of-human-rights/): Is access to the internet a right or a privilege? Autocratic governments see the freedom of speech on the internet as a threat to the regime[i]. Some countries like China and more recently Uganda, have used many controls to censure online discussions although, internet access is a fundamental right recognized by the United Nations (UN) […] - [How social media platforms can create awareness of proper sanitation and hygiene](https://wougnet.org/how-social-media-platforms-can-create-awareness-of-proper-sanitation-and-hygiene/): More people are getting involved with social media platforms with Facebook having the biggest percentage. Uganda’s social media stats for 2019 indicate the number of people using social media platforms, Facebook at 57.4%, Pinterest at 25.09%, Twitter at 11.74%, youtube at 4.01%, and Instagram at 1.13%. With this number of users, social media can be used to […] - [Enhancing Farmer's Capacity to Produce Own Seed: WOUGNET Farmer Field Day Story.](https://wougnet.org/enhancing-farmers-capacity-to-produce-own-seed-wougnet-farmer-field-day-story/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) in collaboration with consortium member organizations are tirelessly working to enhance the capacity of farmers to start producing rice and green gram (locally known as choroko) seeds in a bid to increase income and secure food nutrition and security through the use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools. At the initial […] - [Impact of the WOUGNET ICT Training on the rural communities](https://wougnet.org/impact-of-the-wougnet-ict-training-on-the-rural-communities/): For information and communication technologies and skills to be more effective in rural areas, ICT training must be conducted to equip the rural population with knowledge on how to fully utilize the different available ICTs accessible to them. Training in ICTs, to a greater extent, narrows the digital gap between rural and urban communities. The […] - [Shifting Attitudes and Norms to end child marriage](https://wougnet.org/shifting-attitudes-and-norms-to-end-child-marriage/): In a greater part of the world, the foundations of various aspects of life in society have been built on patriarchal norms. The belief is that man is above all and that all who are not him must submit to or be subdued by him. Yet still and in fact, it would be easy to […] - [KNOB Attack (The Bluetooth loophole)](https://wougnet.org/knob-attack-the-bluetooth-loophole/): A research team has publicized a vulnerability in Bluetooth that may affect nearly every device that supports the wireless communication protocol. Chipmakers were made aware of the so-called Key Negotiation of Bluetooth (KNOB) Attack in November. BlackBerry and Google have announced patches for Android devices. Many of us use Bluetooth technology for its convenience and sharing capabilities. […] - [The Question of Women's Economic Empowerment](https://wougnet.org/the-question-of-womens-economic-empowerment/): Agency which implies “the ability to act” is key in women’s empowerment. Women cannot claim to be empowered if they lack the ability to act and cannot take a bigger step. Uganda’s strategy for wealth creation aims at creating economic empowerment for both genders, but how is it going to benefit women if they are […] - [Translating Access into Empowerment: WOUGNET Tweet Chat #WROUganda](https://wougnet.org/translating-access-into-empowerment-wougnet-tweet-chat-wrouganda/): As a way to prepare for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) which is an annual commemoration, Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) conducted a twitter chat on 24th November 2017 under the theme “Translating Access into Empowerment”. This was to reflect on the organization’s work in phase II of the Women’s Rights […] - [Highlighting the importance of digital skilling rural youth for development.](https://wougnet.org/highlighting-the-importance-of-digital-skilling-rural-youth-for-development/): TOPIC: Youth, Women, ICT. Internet, RCDF The 12th of August was selected as the commemoration day for youth by the United Nations through a resolution passed in 1999. Commemorated annually since the year 2000, it is a day that has been set aside to highlight various issues that affect the youth globally. Since its first commemoration […] - [Women’s venture in Business: Paving Sustainability for their families](https://wougnet.org/womens-venture-in-business-paving-sustainability-for-their-families/): On arrival to Apac town last year in July 2018, majority of the people had closed their businesses by 9:30 pm in order to have enough rest and for safety reasons given most attacks take place in the night. Apac district is located in the Northern region of Uganda with a population of 368,626. The major economic […] - [Social Media Dos and Don’ts for Civic-Engagement: Relevant Tips for Social Media Activism](https://wougnet.org/social-media-dos-and-donts-for-civic-engagement-relevant-tips-for-social-media-activism/): On 25th June 2019, WOUGNET participated at the 5th annual social media conference at Xanadu Collection hotel organized Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Uganda. The theme of this year’s conference was Social Media and the Prospects for Digital Politics in Africa. The conference was attended by journalists, activists, media experts, bloggers, and social media influencers, representatives from government, […] - [Digital Security training to ensure data protection and women's online safety in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/digital-security-training-to-ensure-data-protection-and-womens-online-safety-in-uganda/): In order to ensure digital security and online safety, the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) conducts digital security and online safety training for University students in Uganda, especially young women. During the commemoration of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence last year, WOUGNET organized a digital security training at Kampala International University (KIU) […] - [Women of Uganda Network innovatively empowering women to use ICTs for social change](https://wougnet.org/women-of-uganda-network-innovatively-empowering-women-to-use-icts-for-social-change/): In the same way, someone may just pick up a phone and make a call; it’s the same way social services can be provided by leaders to the citizens. Mobile phones help us to share jokes with friends and families, entertain and keep us informed, pay daily utilities, and make us more organized but at […] - [Younger Women Continue to Face Increasing Online Threats](https://wougnet.org/younger-women-continue-to-face-increasing-online-threats/): Over the years, the internet has become a fundamental tool used in our everyday lives and it maintains a high-impact presence in our community as a whole. The internet is used for social networking, communication, booking flights and accommodation, online banking, e-payments, watching online news, marketing, sharing content that matters, and carrying out our daily […] - [ERIGNU Researchers commit to deepening project visibility and stakeholder engagement](https://wougnet.org/erignu-researchers-commit-to-deepening-project-visibility-and-stakeholder-engagement/): Researchers under the project ‘Enhancing rice-green gram productivity in Northern Uganda’ met on the 11th of February 2019 at the Uganda Technology and Management University (UTAMU) in Kampala to take stock of the project, share lessons learned and devise strategies for improvement in the final phase. The meeting was hosted by Dr. Drake Mirembe of Makerere University under […] - [Gender and digitalization – supporting women in agribusiness](https://wougnet.org/gender-and-digitalization-supporting-women-in-agribusiness/): Information and communication technologies (ICTs) can be powerful tools to overcome limited access to information, boosting productivity and facilitating outsourcing, resource sharing, and networking. But gender disparities in the use of ICTs across the value chain prevent many women from achieving their full potential in the agriculture sector. Globally, the Internet gender gap is about […] - [UCC Study Reveals Low Access and Usage of Information & Communication Technologies (ICTs) by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)](https://wougnet.org/ucc-study-reveals-low-access-and-usage-of-information-communication-technologies-icts-by-persons-with-disabilities-pwds/): ICTs have the potential to significantly increase the socio-economic livelihood of communities in Uganda including persons with disabilities (PWDs). However, there is a growing outcry from the public and key stakeholders that PWDs are increasingly becoming isolated from accessing and using ICTs. Basing on the recent study commissioned by the UCC on access and usage of ICT […] - [Improving the livelihood of rural women farmers through gender-responsive Innovative solutions based on Climate Smart Agriculture](https://wougnet.org/improving-the-livelihood-of-rural-women-farmers-through-gender-responsive-innovative-solutions-based-on-climate-smart-agriculture/): Resilient African Network (RAN) and Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) under the Climate Change Agriculture Food Security project have taken lead in ensuring that innovative solutions based on climate-smart agriculture are made gender responsive and reach the women farmers in the rural areas of Apac, Lira, Kole, and Oyam. CCAFS is a research initiative seeking […] - [Appreciating the contribution of the m-Omulimisa in improving service delivery in Northern Uganda: A case of Oyam District](https://wougnet.org/appreciating-the-contribution-of-the-m-omulimisa-in-improving-service-delivery-in-northern-uganda-a-case-of-oyam-district/): In 2016 Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) partnered with the Agricultural Innovation System Brokerage Association (AGNISBA) to integrate the use of an SMS platform called “m-Omulimisa” to enable WOUGNET to receive complaints on service delivery from the reporters; the Voluntary Social Accountability Committees (VSACs) and other community members. The complaints received are forwarded to responsible […] - [Rainfall pattern affecting agricultural productivity in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/rainfall-pattern-affecting-agricultural-productivity-in-uganda/): Agricultural production that rely on rainfall faces the highest risk compared to that of irrigation.  Rainfall enhances production and productivity in the sector by making crops and vegetation to grow, animals and fish to have enough water for livelihood and flourish. Animals for example depend largely on vegetation while fish and crops production and productivity […] - [Mobile applications that women must have on their mobile phones](https://wougnet.org/mobile-applications-that-women-must-have-on-their-mobile-phones/): Today’s fifth-generation computer advancement has changed the way people perceive and conduct themselves on the internet. Some people have reached the extent of interacting with their devices like humans due to the introduction of artificial intelligence for instance some companies have adopted the use of robotics to administer tasks. New mobile phone applications have been […] - [The Uganda Social Media Conference 2018](https://wougnet.org/the-uganda-social-media-conference-2018/): The Uganda Social Media Conference is an annual event organized by the Uganda country office of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS). It aims at bringing together key stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the media to have a constructive exchange on the impact of social media on the state and society, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. […] - [Menstrual Cups as an Innovative Menstrual Health Management (MHM) Solution](https://wougnet.org/menstrual-cups-as-an-innovative-menstrual-health-management-mhm-solution/): In sub-Saharan Africa, many girls and women do not have access to appropriate menstrual health management methods that are effective comfortable, and safe to use. As a result, girls and women resort to using low-quality methods including strips of cloth, tissue paper, school exercise books, pieces of sponge torn from the mattress, backcloth, and others. […] - [Restrictions to freedom of expression online: Joint oral statement at the Human Rights Council 38th session](https://wougnet.org/restrictions-to-freedom-of-expression-online-joint-oral-statement-at-the-human-rights-council-38th-session/): APC, the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa, Derechos Digitales and the Women of Uganda Network Oral statement delivered under Item 3: General Debate UN Human Rights Council 38th Session 25 June 2018 Thank you, Mr. President. This statement is delivered on behalf of the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), the […] - [WOUGNET at the 2018 RightsCon, Toronto](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-at-the-2018-rightscon-toronto/): The recently concluded RightsCon held in Toronto, Canada as a platform that values respect, diversity, and inclusion in the digital age was a remarkable event that saw wonderful discussions and insights into the current contemporary challenges facing the globe ranging from free expression to online rights, cybersecurity, women and gender, and ICT Policies and perspectives […] - [Tech-related violence against women in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/tech-related-violence-against-women-in-uganda/): Recently, a team of researchers, myself included made a journey to Kayunga town located in Kayunga district, central Uganda among other select sample sites. The purpose for our visit was to investigate the extent of tech-related violence among select groups who participated in our focus group discussions (FGDs) which are a major part of research […] - [Girls in ICT](https://wougnet.org/girls-in-ict/): Girls in ICT Day is an initiative backed by all ITU (International Telecommunication Union) Member states. Originally the International Telegraph Union is a specialized agency of the United Nations which is responsible for issues that concern information and communication technologies.  ICT refers to technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications. It is therefore similar […] - [Contributions to Policy Making and Advocacy Efforts in Advancing Gender Digital Equality in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/contributions-to-policy-making-and-advocacy-efforts-in-advancing-gender-digital-equality-in-uganda/): “Women’s exclusion from the digital revolution is primarily due to policy failure, and policy failure can be reversed” (World Wide Web Foundation, 2016) Founded in 2000, the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is a network of over 100 organisations dedicated to developing the use of ICT among women and women’s organisations in Uganda. As part of our work, […] - [Ensuring access to information on menstrual hygiene management and sexual reproductive health rights for stakeholders](https://wougnet.org/ensuring-access-to-information-on-menstrual-hygiene-management-and-sexual-reproductive-health-rights-for-stakeholders/): The Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES), in partnership with Water Aid Uganda on 29th March 2018 hosted a full-day stakeholder’s meeting on menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and sexual reproductive health rights (SRHR). The meeting which took place in Kampala was held with the objective of increasing the profile of MHM and SRHR in schools through […] - [Why ICT Policy Making and Advocacy efforts should Advance a Gender-Responsive approach to Women’s Digital Empowerment](https://wougnet.org/why-ict-policy-making-and-advocacy-efforts-should-advance-a-gender-responsive-approach-to-womens-digital-empowerment/): The euphoria that has been encapsulated within the term ‘Africa Rising’ according to researchers is attributed to Africa’s expanding middle class and the development of information and communications technologies. This is crucial for the growth and development of Africa’s economy. However, as the internet continues to expand to even the remotest parts of the global South and […] - [Targeted, Connected, and Still Standing: How Ugandan Women Human Rights Defenders Navigated the 2026 Elections and What Comes Next](https://wougnet.org/targeted-connected-and-still-standing-how-ugandan-women-human-rights-defenders-navigated-the-2026-elections-and-what-comes-next/): On 15 January 2026, Uganda held its general elections for the presidency, parliament, and local government. For most of the country, that electoral period and election day represented collective civic engagement with partners, queues at polling stations, ballot papers, and results trickling in. For women human rights defenders (WHRDs) across Uganda, it represented something different: the culmination of months of heightened surveillance, coordinated digital attacks, threats, and the relentless pressure of doing rights work in one of the most challenging political environments in the region, with an internet shutdown. The Context: Elections as a Flashpoint for Digital Violence Against WHRDs Elections […] - [Strengthening Safety, Solidarity, and Resilience for Women Human Rights Defenders](https://wougnet.org/strengthening-safety-solidarity-and-resilience-for-women-human-rights-defenders/): Reflections from WOUGNET’s Holistic Security Training under the “Reclaiming Our Spaces” ProjectBy Caroline Cherop, Executive Director, Young Wombs Trauma Centre Why holistic security matters The work of women human rights defenders is often described in the language of courage. Too rarely is it described in the language of survival, yet for many women defenders, safety is never only about physical protection; it is also about navigating online harassment, responding to surveillance risks, protecting loved ones, managing fear and exhaustion, and finding the strength to continue speaking out in hostile environments. International Human Rights bodies have documented that women human rights defenders […] - [HerRightToKnow:Advocates Call for Gender-Inclusive Solutions to Expand Women’s Freedom of Expression and Access to Information](https://wougnet.org/herrighttoknowadvocates-call-for-gender-inclusive-solutions-to-expand-womens-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information/): On Wednesday, 13th August 2025, digital rights advocates, gender activists, and civic space defenders convened online under the hashtag #HerRightToKnow for a vibrant Twitter (X) conversation hosted by Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) in with support from the Commonwealth Foundation. The dialogue centered on “Gender-Inclusive Solutions for Expanding Women’s Freedom of Expression and Access to Information.” Key Reflections Throughout the chat, participants reportedly emphasized that freedom of expression for women in Uganda and globally remains deeply shaped by online safety, digital literacy, and inclusive legal frameworks.  Participants highlighted that women continue to face disproportionate levels of online harassment, intimidation, and surveillance. […] - [Unmasking Digital Surveillance: The Dark Side of Social Media Tracking](https://wougnet.org/unmasking-digital-surveillance-the-dark-side-of-social-media-tracking/): In today’s digital age, the use of digital surveillance tools has become increasingly prevalent, posing a significant threat to digital rights and freedoms. These tools, often used by governments, corporations, and even private entities, to monitor and collect vast amounts of personal data, tend to compromise individuals’ right to privacy and freedom of expression. On 8th April 2025, Daily monitor reported that the Government of Uganda through the Uganda Communications Commission is in the advanced stages of the process to acquire equipment and technology capable of monitoring social media activity which sparks concerns about privacy invasion, mass surveillance, and potential chilling […] - [Our Voices, Our Futures: Amplifying Women’s Voices in Internet Governance](https://wougnet.org/our-voices-our-futures-amplifying-womens-voices-in-internet-governance/): “If the internet were a place, person, or object, what would it be?” The answers were as profound as they were imaginative: This simple yet powerful metaphor set the tone for two days of deep reflection, learning, and co-creation at the Strengthening Gender and Human Rights Engagement in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) workshop, held at Keba Xpress Hotel, Entebbe, on 26th–27th June 2025. The Our Voices, Our Futures (OVOF) project brought together over 27 participants from civil society, academia, media, government, and the legal fraternity to strengthen gender and human rights engagement in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). For many, […] - [Women’s Freedom of Expression: What Are The Challenges & Their impacts to  women’s participation in Digital Spaces?](https://wougnet.org/womens-freedom-of-expression-what-are-the-challenges-their-impacts-to-womens-participation-in-digital-spaces/): In Uganda, the rights to Freedom of Expression and Access to Information are fundamental to democratic participation and accountability. However, the extent at which these rights are accessible particularly for women-led CSOs, female journalists and other marginalized groups remains undermined by existing legal frameworks which have become instruments of imposing power, curbing speech, discouraging free access and dissemination of information among women-led civil society organisations and journalists which intimidates them and leads to self-censorship. While legal frameworks are designed to promote civic participation, their practical implementation oftentimes limits rather than empowers women to safely and freely participate in both online and […] - [Empowering Africa’s Digital Future Through Inclusive Connectivity](https://wougnet.org/empowering-africas-digital-future-through-inclusive-connectivity/): In its continuous commitment to fostering digital inclusion and strengthening regional and international collaboration, WOUGNET actively participated in the African Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) 2025, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Centered around the theme “Empowering Africa’s Digital Future,” the forum brought together stakeholders from across the globe to discuss inclusive digital development for the African continent. WOUGNET hosted a session titled “Bridging Digital Divides: Advancing Inclusive Access Through Rural Broadband Connectivity Models,” which highlighted innovative solutions aimed at closing the digital connectivity gap in underserved communities. Co-convened by WOUGNET and its partners, the session showcased the transformative potential of rural […] - [Safeguarding the Digital Space: Understanding Uganda's Computer Misuse(Amendment) Act 2022](https://wougnet.org/safeguarding-the-digital-space-understanding-ugandas-computer-misuseamendment-act-2022/): On Thursday May 29th 2025, Women of Uganda Network(WOUGNET) convened 26 multistakeholders, including politicians, feminists and civil society organizations for an advocacy webinar to disseminate a policy brief titled “Enhancing Women and Girls Digital Rights and Inclusion in Uganda:Addressing the Impact of the Computer Misuse Act on Access, Use and Application of ICT on Women and Girls” The webinar disseminated key findings, policy gaps, and recommendations from WOUGNET’s 2024 assessment titled “The Impact and Knowledge of the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act 2022 on Women and Girls’ Rights, Access, Use and Application of ICTs.”  The survey was to assess the knowledge of […] - [Reclaiming Gender Justice in the Digital Age](https://wougnet.org/reclaiming-gender-justice-in-the-digital-age/): The African digital ecosystem continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by global trends and technological advancements. From mobile connectivity to AI-powered tools, digital innovation has transformed how people live, communicate and access services. However, the pace and penetration of these technologies remain uneven, with many communities especially in rural and underserved areas, still struggling to fully benefit from the digital revolution.As technology continues to expand its reach across the continent, critical issues around digital rights, inclusion, and accountability have become increasingly urgent. Who gets to use technology? Under what conditions? And whose voices are amplified or silenced in digital spaces? These questions […] - [What are Hardware Security keys](https://wougnet.org/what-are-hardware-security-keys/): In a world where cyberattacks, data breaches, and identity theft are growing concerns, keeping your online accounts safe is more important than ever. One of the most effective tools for boosting digital security is the hardware security key, a physical device that adds a powerful layer of protection to your digital life. Understanding the Basics A hardware security key is a small device often resembling a USB stick that acts as a physical form of authentication. It’s part of a cybersecurity method known as two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA). Rather than relying solely on a password (which can be […] - [Leveraging Digital Spaces  to Promote Women’s Freedom of Expression and Access to Information](https://wougnet.org/leveraging-digital-spaces-to-promote-womens-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information/): Despite the existence and implementation of laws such as the Computer Misuse Act, there still remains a need to address gender disparities and ensure that women are considered in policy formulation processes. Women in Uganda still face numerous challenges i.e. gender-based violence, a pervasive issue, with many cases going unreported due to social stigma and inadequate support systems. The conversation around women’s inclusion in decision making processes  took center stage on January 28, 2025, during an X (formerly Twitter) chat organized by Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET). Under the theme “Leveraging Digital and Policy Spaces to Protect Women’s Freedom of Expression […] - [Stay Secure with Google’s Proactive Security Alerts](https://wougnet.org/stay-secure-with-googles-proactive-security-alerts/): Why It Matters:Your online safety is a priority! Google’s proactive security alerts help protect your accounts and data by notifying you of potential threats like suspicious logins, malicious files, or risky websites before they become a problem. Examples of google security alerts 1. Suspicious Login Attempt Alert Example: “New sign-in from a Windows device in Kampala, Uganda (IP: 196.43.xxx.xx). Was this you?”Action: Malicious File Download Warning Alert Example (Gmail): “This attachment (invoice.zip) may contain malware. Download only if you trust the sender.”✅ Action: 3. Compromised Passwords Alert Example: “Your password for ‘example.com’ was exposed in a data breach. Change it now.”✅ […] - [Fostering Gender-Inclusive Online Spaces in Uganda: Insights from the "Our Voices, Our Futures" Consultative Meeting](https://wougnet.org/fostering-gender-inclusive-online-spaces-in-uganda-insights-from-the-our-voices-our-futures-consultative-meeting/): On November 29, 2024, Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) hosted a pivotal meeting titled “Gender Inclusive and Best Practices Governing Online Spaces in Uganda” at the Four Points by Sheraton, Kampala. This event brought together key stakeholders to discuss actionable strategies for creating inclusive and safe digital spaces, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls online. Participants and Stakeholder Representation The meeting attracted 20 participants, with a significant majority being women. Attendees represented a diverse range of organizations, including government institutions, private sector actors, and civil society organizations. Stakeholders included entities like the Uganda Communications […] - [Bridging the Digital Divide: Insights from WOUGNET’s Digital Security Training and Dialogue on Digital Safety Practices](https://wougnet.org/bridging-the-digital-divide-insights-from-wougnets-digital-security-training-and-dialogue-on-digital-safety-practices/): In today’s rapidly advancing digital age, ensuring safe and meaningful participation for women and girls is essential to bridging the digital gender divide.  On Friday, November 29th, 2024, WOUGNET convened diverse female stakeholders, including civil society, media, students, and digital security activists, for a virtual digital security training and X-Chat with the World Association for Christian Communication (WACC) support.  The two conversations aimed to share knowledge and experiences, foster safer and more meaningful participation in online spaces, and enhance the role of civil society in Uganda in empowering women and girls in digital spaces.  The virtual digital security training taught women […] - [Rural Broadband Network / Community Network – Transforming Education in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/rural-broadband-network-community-network-transforming-education-in-uganda/): Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” My name is Mr. Morish Omara, and I am an educational officer overseeing IT at Maruzi Seed Secondary School, a public secondary school established in Apac Municipality, Apac District, Northern Uganda, in 2014. Since opening with just 127 students, the school now serves over 1,000 students from nearby rural and urban communities. As an educator who has studied within Uganda’s education system, I am deeply committed to sharing how the Rural Broadband Network (RCBN), a free community internet project implemented by WOUGNET through […] - [October: Troubleshooting Computer Sound Issues](https://wougnet.org/october-troubleshooting-computer-sound-issues/): 1. Check the Basics: 2. Update Audio Drivers: 3. Disable Audio Enhancements: 4. Check for Software Conflicts: 5. Hardware Issues: Additional Tips: By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix most common computer sound problems. - [Breaking the Silence, Stop the Violence Against Women](https://wougnet.org/breaking-the-silence-stop-the-violence-against-women/): Globally, it is estimated that 1 in 3 women (approximately 30% aged 15 and older) have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at the hands of an intimate partner, non-partner, or both at least once in their lifetime. This translates to over 736 million women worldwide who have suffered from gender-based violence.  According to the National Survey on Violence in Uganda (2021), a staggering 95% of Ugandan women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence, highlighting the pervasive nature of gender-based violence (GBV) in the country. Furthermore, the Minister of State for Gender and Culture reported that GBV resulted in at least 168 […] - [September 2024: How to best increase computer speed](https://wougnet.org/september-2024-how-to-best-increase-computer-speed/): Tips to Increase Computer Speed Improving the speed of your computer can significantly enhance your productivity and overall user experience. Here are some effective strategies to consider: 1. Restart Your Computer Regularly Restarting clears the RAM and stops unnecessary background processes, providing a performance boost. Aim to restart at least once a week to maintain optimal performance. 2. Limit Startup Programs Many applications launch automatically during startup, consuming system resources. Use the Task Manager to disable unnecessary startup programs, which can improve boot times and overall speed. 3. Uninstall Unused Applications Remove programs that you no longer use or need. This […] - [WOUGNET Counter Backlash Observatory Meetings](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-counter-backlash-observatory-meetings/): On 16th August and 30th September 2024, we held observatory meetings with a panel of WOUGNET observatory members to discuss the evolving dynamics of counter-backlash and gender backlash within Uganda. The participants engaged in structured discussions guided by a standard set of questions designed to capture insights on these issues. These conversations provided a deeper understanding of the challenges and trends in feminist organizing and civic engagement online. Based on these discussions, updated observatory reports were developed, building upon the findings of the initial reports. The observatory approach is one of the key research methods being used by WOUGNET under the […] - [Radio Talk Show on Countering Backlash](https://wougnet.org/radio-talk-show-on-countering-backlash/): On 14th August, we hosted a radio talk show on Radio One FM 90, one of the most widely listened-to stations in Kampala, Uganda. The talk show centered on the dynamics of counter-backlash and gender backlash in the country, engaging listeners in discussions about how gender backlash manifests in online spaces and strategies to counter it within civic, policy, and popular arenas. The show also provided an excellent platform for WOUGNET to raise awareness about the Countering Backlash project, broadening its reach to a larger and more diverse audience. During the talk show, panelists emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive digital […] - [Policy Dialogue on Shrinking Civic Space [Online] and Feminist Organising [Online]](https://wougnet.org/policy-dialogue-on-shrinking-civic-space-online-and-feminist-organising-online/): On Wednesday 14th August, WOUGNET conducted a policy dialogue on shrinking civic space online and feminists organizing online, under the Countering Backlash project. The dialogue aimed to bring together civil society actors to discuss and debate the current trend of backlash in the civic space and feminist organizing [online] in Uganda, exploring effective resistance strategies and ways to push back. Through this dialogue, we strengthened our research efforts on gender backlash and counter-backlash within the Ugandan context. The counter-backlash and gender justice participants included law practitioners, representatives from media organizations, academia, feminist organizations, women Human Rights Defenders, and the wider civil society. […] - [One Step Further: Data Justice Insights and Lessons from Uganda and Beyond](https://wougnet.org/one-step-further-data-justice-insights-and-lessons-from-uganda-and-beyond/): Introduction On Friday August 2, 2024, Women of Uganda Network(WOUGNET) together with the Data Protection and Privacy Office (DPPO), Pollicy, Association for Progressive Communications(APC)  and other practitioners gathered at the Protea Hotel in Kampala to engage in the Uganda Internet Governance Forum 2024 and specifically for a compelling session organised by the Sandra Aceng, Executive Director, WOUGNET titled “One Step Further: Data Justice Insights and Lessons from Uganda and Beyond.” The session panel consisted of Esther Nyapendi from WOUGNET, Phillip Ayazika from POLLICY and Stella Alibateese from DPPO. This discussion was moderated by Peace Oliver Amuge from APC bringing together a […] - [Multi-stakeholder convening on Shrinking civic space [online] and feminists organising [online]](https://wougnet.org/multi-stakeholder-convening-on-shrinking-civic-space-online-and-feminists-organising-online/): On 9th August 2024, we held a multi-stakeholder convening on the shrinking civic space online and feminist online organizing in Uganda. The goal of the convening was to discuss evidence on the backlash against feminist organizing in digital spaces, as well as the broader issue of shrinking civic space online, while exploring effective mechanisms to counter this backlash. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including gender justice advocates, policymakers, law enforcers, legal practitioners, women human rights defenders, representatives from media organizations, and feminist groups. During the discussions, participants emphasized the growing threat of online harassment against women that […] - [WOUGNET at DataFestAfrica2024: The Impact of Spyware on Civic Space and Feminist Organizing in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-at-datafestafrica2024-the-impact-of-spyware-on-civic-space-and-feminist-organizing-in-uganda/): Introduction Uganda traces the infiltration of Spyware back to 2011 following the presidential elections, and the proliferation of this technology poses a significant threat to civic space and feminist organising in Uganda. Spyware also known as malicious software is designed to infiltrate and monitor devices without the user’s consent, undermining the fundamental rights to privacy, freedom of expression, and association. Its deployment has far-reaching consequences for activists, journalists, and particularly feminist groups advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. These interventions are critically important, but may not consider issues such as human rights, data protection, transparency and accountability, which have been […] - [August 2024: How to best manage webmail](https://wougnet.org/august-2024-how-to-best-manage-webmail/): Managing webmail effectively is crucial for maintaining productivity and reducing stress. Here are some best practices to help streamline your email management: 1. Organize with Folders and Labels 2. Implement Filters and Rules 3. Prioritize Emails 4. Schedule Email Time 5. Utilize Automation Tools 6. Regular Maintenance 7. Use a Unified Inbox By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your webmail management, leading to increased efficiency and reduced stress associated with email overload. - [WOUGNET National Legal Empowerment Hackathon on Freedom of Expression (FoE)](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-national-legal-empowerment-hackathon-on-freedom-of-expression-foe/): Uganda has made significant strides in recognizing and protecting women’s rights, both domestically and through international commitments. Despite the existing legal frameworks, women-led civil society organizations (CSOs) in Uganda still face numerous barriers to their existence and operations, including new laws and policies that restrict rights and freedoms, particularly freedom of expression. The 1995 Constitution of Uganda guarantees equality and non-discrimination based on gender. Furthermore, Uganda is a signatory to various international treaties and conventions, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. With support from the Commonwealth Foundation, WOUGNET is currently implementing the Civil Society […] - [Strengthening CSOs Freedom of Expression and Access to Information: Strategies For Inclusive Policy-Making Processes](https://wougnet.org/strengthening-csos-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information-strategies-for-inclusive-policy-making-processes/): In today’s integral world, the rights to Freedom of Expression and Access to Information are fundamental rights. However, for many women, especially Civil Society Organisations leaders,  journalists and other marginalised groups, these rights are often hindered by various barriers ranging from society and political systems.  For women, particularly women-led  CSOs, journalists, Persons with Disabilities and other marginalised groups, the lack of inclusion in policy-making processes increases inequalities, both online and offline. These women often face challenges, such as Online Gender-Based Violence, trolling, gendered misinformation and self censorship which infringes on their rights to Freedom of Expression and Access to Information.  Recognizing […] - [WOUGNET Establishes Gender Equality Committee to Enhance Rural Broadband Connectivity in Northern Uganda](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-establishes-gender-equality-committee-to-enhance-rural-broadband-connectivity-in-northern-uganda/): Strengthening Women’s Access to Enhanced Rural Broadband Connectivity for a Prosperous and Knowledge-based Digital Economy in Northern Uganda is a transformative project implemented by the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) since September 2023. With technical support from NetLabs! Uganda, a research centre at Makerere University, and financial backing from the World Association for Christian Communication (WACC) and the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), this project is making strides in increasing internet access and usage among rural communities in Apac District, particularly in the divisions of Akere, Agulu, Arocha, and Atik. Caption: Gender Equality Committee Holding a Meeting A key milestone in […] - [Gender Digital Divide: Empowering Women in the Digital Space](https://wougnet.org/gender-digital-divide-empowering-women-in-the-digital-space-2/): Globally, 70% of men use the internet, compared with 65% of women. The gender  gap is highest in Africa, where 40% of men and 30% of women use the internet. A survey by World Wide Web found that only 19% of women in Uganda are online, compared to 27% of men. This gender digital gap is due to factors like low income for women to buy data compared to men, limited access to digital literacy, domestic roles and responsibilities for women, low access to the internet and technology due to high costs, among others. Furthermore, Limited knowledge on how to exercise […] - [Farm Radio International Thanks WOUGNET for Successful Campaign Collaboration](https://wougnet.org/farm-radio-international-thanks-wougnet-for-successful-campaign-collaboration/): Farm Radio International express gratitude to WOUGNET for being part of such an amazing campaign and seize the memorable moments with WOUGNET and audience. - [Two Months after DRIF 2024: A Reminder of  Our Commitment to Connect the Unconnected](https://wougnet.org/two-months-after-drif-2024-a-reminder-of-our-commitment-to-connect-the-unconnected/): The commitment towards realising Article 2 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 2 of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, and Article 21 of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, as amended underscores the principle that everyone is equal regardless of gender, race, colour, sex, language, religion, politics, or place of birth. These foundational provisions bar any form of discrimination and uphold the equality of all individuals before the law. As we reflect on this commitment, we must consider our progress and ongoing efforts to […] - [July 2024: Mastering Google Forms: A Comprehensive Guide](https://wougnet.org/july-2024-mastering-google-forms-a-comprehensive-guide/): Google Forms is a powerful tool for creating surveys, quizzes, and data collection forms. Let’s dive into how to make the most of it. Organizing Your Form with Sections Managing Questions Effectively Collaboration Made Easy Linking to Google Sheets Exporting and Sharing Your Form Single vs. Multiple Entries Additional Tips By following these tips, you can create effective Google Forms that streamline data collection and analysis. Would you like to delve deeper into any specific aspect of Google Forms?reach out to us at techsupport@wougnet.org Compiled by:Letowon Saitoti Abdi, Snr. Technical Support Officer - [Gender Roles and Perceptions in the Modern Era](https://wougnet.org/gender-roles-and-perceptions-in-the-modern-era/): Gender roles are culturally and socially determined sets of expectations based on concepts of masculinity and femininity. Examples of gender roles are police officers, housekeepers, race car drivers, nurses, and IT consultants. Gender roles are distinguished from sex roles, i.e. sex roles are natural and biologically determined whereas Gender roles are society-determined. For example, in most societies, a woman’s or man’s responsibility at home is not necessarily determined by biological factors but rather based on and influenced by the cultural, legal, social, economic, and political environment in which people are living. For example, in some homes boys are allowed to take […] - [Gender Digital Divide: Empowering Women in the Digital Space](https://wougnet.org/gender-digital-divide-empowering-women-in-the-digital-space/): Globally, 70% of men use the internet, compared with 65% of women. The gender gap is highest in Africa, where 40% of men and 30% of women use the internet. A survey by World Wide Web found that only 19% of women in Uganda are online, compared to 27% of men. This gender digital gap is due to factors like low income for women to buy data compared to men, limited access to digital literacy, domestic roles and responsibilities for women, low access to the internet and technology due to high costs, among others. Furthermore, Limited knowledge on how to exercise […] - [Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) Through Collaboration is Connecting the Unconnected Communities to Benefit from the Rural Connectivity Broadband Network](https://wougnet.org/women-of-uganda-network-wougnet-through-collaboration-is-connecting-the-unconnected-communities-to-benefit-from-the-rural-connectivity-broadband-network/): Collaborating with other organizations that share your goals can help you expand your reach and increase your visibility within your field. By working together, you can leverage each other’s strengths and expertise to create something new and valuable. This principle is central to why WOUGNET, through its regional office in Northern Uganda, called Kubere Information Centre (KIC), is collaborating with netLabs! UG, a research centre at Makerere University, to strengthen research on telecommunication and networking technologies. Consequently, communities in Apac have greatly benefited from this partnership and collaboration, specifically through the piloting of the Rural Connectivity Broadband Connectivity (RCBN) and the […] - [June 2024: Troubleshooting a Non-Responsive Trackpad](https://wougnet.org/june-2024-troubleshooting-a-non-responsive-trackpad/): Understanding the Issue: Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to determine the nature of the problem: General Troubleshooting Steps: Specific Troubleshooting for Windows: Specific Troubleshooting for macOS: Additional Tips: For more information and support contact us via techsupport@wougnet.org Compiled by: Letowon Saitoti Abdi, Snr. Technical Support Officer WOUGNET - [Breaking the Cycle of  Gender Discrimination at Workplaces ](https://wougnet.org/breaking-the-cycle-of-gender-discrimination-at-workplaces/): Gender discrimination is a form of discrimination in which a person is treated differently or unfairly on the basis of their sex/gender. Discrimination is still a recurrent problem at workplaces, which has held women back in the workplace for generations. According to the European Union, 5.23 million women reported feeling discriminated against at work in 2021, while far fewer men (3.63 million) reported the same experience. Findings from the Pew Research Center show that 42% of women in the United States have faced discrimination at their jobs because of their gender.  Wage discrimination is persistently increasing in Uganda, with women earning […] - [ Understanding Data Consumption and Usage in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/understanding-data-consumption-and-usage-in-uganda/): 66% of the world’s  population have access to the internet. In 2020, the amount of data consumed globally reached 64.2 zettabytes. Internet penetration in Uganda stood at 26.2% in 2021 and the consumption is rapidly increasing. However, complaints have come up by consumers  for their data and faster internet consumption, which has raised a lot of questions like “Why do bundles expire fast?”  Failure to understand how to use technology is one of the leading complaints by consumers for their data and faster internet consumption. Sensitizing and educating consumers on data usage, and empowering them on their rights and obligations as […] - [Understanding Key Challenges Surrounding Women’s Leadership in Uganda and Practical Recommendations](https://wougnet.org/understanding-key-challenges-surrounding-womens-leadership-in-uganda-and-practical-recommendations/): Oxford Academic explains gender leadership gaps as the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions in various sectors, such as politics, business, and education. This is an increasing phenomenon today whereby women are disproportionately concentrated in lower-level and lower-authority leadership positions than men. This gap is driven mostly by stereotypes, discrimination, power imbalance, and privilege. According to the World Economic Forum, globally women share 31% of roles in leadership, although shares vary by industry. Findings from Women’s leadership in Village Savings and Loan Associations(CSLAs) in Uganda indicate that 80% male dominate (i.e. females are underrepresented) in the senior leadership roles of chairperson […] - [Legal Framework on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information: Exploring the Impact on Women and Possible Solutions](https://wougnet.org/legal-framework-on-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information-exploring-the-impact-on-women-and-possible-solutions/): Freedom of Expression and Access to Information are fundamental human rights for gender inclusivity to exist. However, the efficiency of these rights can be significantly hindered by policies and their implementation. These challenges can be particularly pronounced for women, who already face numerous societal barriers. On 24th May 2024 Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) organized a  National Engagement Dialogue under the Civil Society in Uganda Participation Program (CUSP). This dialogue brought together multiple stakeholders including policymakers, policy implementers, women-led Civil Society organizations (CSOs), journalists, and women human rights defenders. The dialogue focused on assessing the existing laws and policies on the […] - [Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies and Their Impact on Civic Space in Africa](https://wougnet.org/artificial-intelligence-and-emerging-technologies-and-their-impact-on-civic-space-in-africa/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) recently participated in the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum hosted by Paradigm Initiative in Accra, Ghana, from April 23-25, 2024. At this influential event, the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) organized a compelling panel discussion titled “Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies and Their Impact on Civil Society.” Moderated by ICNL’s Senior Legal Advisor for Africa, Florence Nakazibwe, the panel featured four distinguished speakers: Li Fung, Senior Human Rights Adviser, UN Human Rights Office – Kenya; Zwelithini Eugene Xaba, Legal Officer, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights; Sandra Aceng, Executive Director, Women of Uganda […] - [Bridging Gaps in Women’s Freedom of Expression and Access to Information](https://wougnet.org/bridging-gaps-in-womens-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information/): Uganda has made significant strides in recognizing and protecting women’s rights, both domestically and through international commitments. The 1995 Constitution of Uganda guarantees equality and non-discrimination based on gender. Additionally, Uganda is a signatory to various international treaties and conventions such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women  (CEDAW). Despite these legal frameworks, there remains a need to address gender disparities and ensure that women are considered in policy formulation processes. Women in  Uganda still face numerous challenges i.e. gender-based violence, including domestic violence, remains a pervasive issue, with many cases going unreported due to […] - [Cyber Feminism: Resilience in the Face of Online Backlash and Civic Constrictions](https://wougnet.org/cyber-feminism-resilience-in-the-face-of-online-backlash-and-civic-constrictions/): Global progress on gender equality is under threat. We are living in an era where major political and social shifts are resulting in new forces that are visibly pushing back to reverse the many gains made for women’s rights and shrink the civic space. This patriarchal backlash is escalating globally. It aims to ‘other’, demonize and disempower those who seek to advance gender justice, and to re-valorize patriarchal traditional gender roles and stereotypes, founded on male supremacy and the subordination of women. Gender backlash persists as a significant issue in hindering the achievement of gender equality. This backlash encompasses various forms […] - [Using ICTs for Citizen Engagement with Leaders to Improve Accountability and Transparency in Public Service Delivery in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/using-icts-for-citizen-engagement-with-leaders-to-improve-accountability-and-transparency-in-public-service-delivery-in-uganda/): Limited inclusive citizenry participation at the grassroots, unchecked bureaucracy corruption tendencies, and information gaps result in inappropriate implementation of national plans and poor service delivery. This deprives people of their right to access public service. However, recognizing and embracing ICT improves the effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery. In partnership with the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), WOUGNET initiated an ICT Governance project entitled: Promoting Effective Use of ICTs for Citizen Engagement with Leaders to Improve Accountability and Transparency in Public Service Delivery in Eastern Uganda( Tororo, Pallisa, and Busia districts).The project aimed at addressing institutional inconsistencies characterized by limited […] - [Exploring Policies Affecting Women’s Rights to Freedom of Expression and Access to Information](https://wougnet.org/exploring-policies-affecting-womens-rights-to-freedom-of-expression-and-access-to-information/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET)’s X community witnessed a dynamic X Chat on 28th March 2024 where women human rights defenders, journalists, gender activists, feminists and other human rights defenders convened to discuss the crucial issue: “Policies on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information that affect women’s rights online.” The panellists including Lorna Nagawa from Women’s Pro Bono Initiative, Ruth Nagudi from Media Focus on Africa and Carol Mukisa Nyangoma from Warm Hearts Foundation led the conversation that tackled various laws and policies on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information that infringe on women’s online participation, their impact on […] - [May 2024: Troubleshooting Sound Issues on Your Laptop](https://wougnet.org/may-2024-troubleshooting-sound-issues-on-your-laptop/): Understanding the Problem Before diving into solutions, try to pinpoint the issue: General Troubleshooting Steps Windows Troubleshooting macOS Troubleshooting Additional Tips for Both Windows and macOS Remember: Specific steps might vary depending on your laptop model and operating system. Compiled by:Letowon Saitoti Abdi, Snr. Technical Support Officer, WOUGNET - [Exploring the Contribution of Women of Uganda Network in Improving Service Delivery  in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/exploring-the-contribution-of-women-of-uganda-network-in-improving-service-delivery-in-uganda/): WOUGNET with support from Indigo Trust implemented a project titled: Strengthening Use of ICTs and Social Media for Citizen Engagement and Improved Service Delivery. The project was implemented in Northern Uganda, in the districts of Apac, Kole, and Oyam. The project aimed at strengthening engagements among citizens and their leaders, and to demand for improved service delivery through the use of ICTs.This project helped in raising awareness in communities and this specifically targeted the capacity of duty bearers and citizens( Voluntary Social Accountability Committees(VSACs) to enable them to monitor social service delivery issues within their respective communities.VSACs also documented and reported […] - [April 2024: Understanding Image Size and Resolution](https://wougnet.org/understanding-image-size-and-resolution/): Image Formats Resizing Images Optimizing Images for Web Use Additional Tips Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful: Here are some additional tips for resizing and optimizing images for specific purposes: Compiled by:Letowon Saitoti Abdi, Snr. Technical Support Officer, WOUGNET - [March 2024: How to use AI-generated backdrops in Instagram Stories](https://wougnet.org/march-2024-how-to-use-ai-generated-backdrops-in-instagram-stories/): Meta has unveiled a fresh AI functionality for Instagram Stories, enabling users to effortlessly alter the backdrop of their photos with minimal effort. A surge of AI-driven transformation is sweeping through the technology realm, with major players such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Meta harnessing AI’s potential to innovate and enrich their platforms. Meta, under Mark Zuckerberg’s leadership, is particularly focused on integrating AI capabilities into Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to elevate user experiences. Recently, the company unveiled a range of new AI features, including one enabling users to effortlessly alter the background of their Instagram Story photos with just a […] - [Vacancy Announcement: Project Officer](https://wougnet.org/vacancy-announcement-project-officer/): Position: Project Officer Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is looking for a dynamic and self-motivated individual to join the WOUGNET team. WOUGNET in partnership with Humundi is implementing a gender and agroecology project titled, “Promoting Agroecology Assisted Transition to Enhance Food Security and Incomes of Smallholders’ Farmers through Inclusive Participation and Digital Technologies in Uganda (PATHS)” in the Rwenzori region of Uganda.  WOUGNET is a non-governmental organization initiated in May 2000 by several women’s organizations in Uganda to develop the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among women as tools to share information and address issues collectively. WOUGNET’s vision is […] - [WOUGNET Accountability and Governance Projects implemented from 2011-2020](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-accountability-and-governance-projects-implemented-from-2011-2020/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) implemented   Projects in Northern Uganda and Eastern Uganda that promoted good governance, transparency, and accountability through the use of ICTs to improve service delivery in communities.  The projects were supported by partners that included the Swedish Program for ICT in Developing Regions (SPIDER), Indigo Trust, and the Swedish Program for International Development (SIDA).  The projects were a response to poor service provision that was being experienced at the local government level in governance, administration, and implementation of various projects that led to misuse and misallocation of resources, resulting in poor service provision. The projects complemented […] - [February 2024: Understanding Virtual Computing](https://wougnet.org/february-2024/): Virtual computing might sound intimidating, but it’s essentially running computers within computers! By creating virtual machines (VMs), you gain flexibility, efficiency, and security in your computing experience. This article explores the basics of virtual computing and how you can harness its potential. What is Virtual Computing? Imagine having multiple computers on one physical machine. That’s virtual computing! It uses software to create isolated virtual environments (VMs) that function like individual computers. Each VM has its own operating system, resources, and applications, operating independently within the shared hardware. Benefits of Virtual Computing: How to Use Virtual Computing: 1. Choose Your Platform: 2. […] - [Exploring the impact of Gender-Based Violence: Recommendations for action](https://wougnet.org/exploring-the-impact-of-gender-based-violence-recommendations-for-action/): Gender-based violence persists as a prominent infringement upon human rights across societies, largely rooted in gender discrimination. While both men and women endure such violence, women and girls constitute the majority of victims. Gender-Based Violence is a form of discrimination and a violation of human rights, encompassing physical, sexual, mental, emotional, and economic harm, along with threats, coercion, and deprivation of liberty. Globally,35% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence and 7% of women have been sexually assaulted by someone other than a partner. This does not only affect women involved but also their children, […] - [Examining Social Norms and Beliefs About Gender-Based Violence](https://wougnet.org/examining-social-norms-and-beliefs-about-gender-based-violence/): Gender-Based Violence(GBV) is a violation of human rights that affects one in three women globally, these include intimate partner violence, physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and economic violence. Gender-Based Violence involves power used to control women and girls. Social norms have exacerbated toxic masculinity, leading some men to engage in violence even when they may not desire to do so. This encourages men to adopt traits of toughness, aggression, and violence, particularly directly towards women.   These actions restrict women’s freedoms and deprive them of their rights. Additionally, they hinder women from accessing various opportunities, such as educational and economic […] - [January 2024:  Connect Gmail to Outlook with Ease](https://wougnet.org/january-2024-connect-gmail-to-outlook-with-ease/): Managing multiple email accounts can be a headache, but fear not! This technical tip will guide you through seamlessly connecting your Gmail account to Outlook, allowing you to view and manage all your emails in one convenient location. Before We Begin: Step-by-Step Guide: 1. Enable IMAP in Gmail: 2. Add Gmail to Outlook: For Windows: For Mac: 3. Enjoy Unified Email Management! You’ll now see your Gmail inbox, folders, and labels within Outlook. Send and receive emails from both accounts effortlessly! Bonus Tips: By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering your inbox with a unified Gmail […] - [Gendered aspects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on Data protection for women and girls in Africa](https://wougnet.org/gendered-aspects-of-artificial-intelligence-ai-and-its-impact-on-data-protection-for-women-and-girls-in-africa/): In the ever-evolving digital space, the intersection between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and privacy has become a complex concern, raising questions about the balance between innovation and safeguarding personal information. In 1956, John McCarthy, a young Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Dartmouth College invited a group of people to clarify and develop a machine that thinks and acts like human beings which drove the development of the first Artificial Intelligence programming language and ultimate invention of artificial intelligence technology. Ever since, the narrative on artificial intelligence and scope of advancement has tremendously changed since the invention of first generational computation in 1946 […] - [Digital Security Training at Kampala International University](https://wougnet.org/digital-security-training-at-kampala-international-university/): According to the United Nations Population Fund, 85% of women report witnessing online violence. Women and girls, particularly those from minority and marginalized communities are most likely to have their images abused online and are often subjected to demeaning non-consensual sexual acts. Forms of online violence include hate speech, sexually violent dialogue, cyberbullying, uploading of sexually explicit materials without the consent of the pictured subject(revenge porn/NCII), and stalking among others. Such acts lead to psychological trauma, isolation, and harassment and cause general fear of one’s safety. It leads to social disorder and a negative impact on a person’s social and professional […] - [December 2023: What to know about screen Mirroring and Casting](https://wougnet.org/december-2023-what-to-know-about-screen-mirroring-and-casting/): Screen sharing is a feature that allows you to remotely display the contents of your screen to another device or multiple devices in real time. It’s like creating a live video feed of your computer screen that others can see and interact with in various ways. While both screen mirroring and screen casting involve displaying content from one device onto another, they have key differences and use cases: Screen Mirroring: Screen Casting: Choosing the Right Option: Consider these factors: Remember, both options have their strengths. By understanding the differences and considering your specific needs, you can choose the best way to […] - [Feminists Resilience in Uganda’s Shrinking Civic Space](https://wougnet.org/feminists-resilience-in-ugandas-shrinking-civic-space/): Gender backlash persists as a significant issue in hindering the gains, achievements, and progress made on gender equality. This backlash encompasses various forms of pushback directed at feminist activists and Human Rights Defenders, including, but not limited to, the use of languages, phrases, and images that objectify women, strict regulation related to gender equality, reproductive rights, media misrepresentation, backlash against women in leadership and censorship of discussions on gender activism. While the internet continues to serve as a vital tool for feminist organizations to counter backlash, there has been insufficient effort to ensure that communication platforms protect the freedom of speech, […] - [WOUGNET at GeJuSTA](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-at-gejusta/): Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is an educational program developed to prepare primary and secondary students for college, graduate study and careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).  World over, the representation of women and girls in STEM fields is significantly lower than men, resulting in a large gender gap. Causes of gender imbalance in STEM subjects include girls’ negative perceptions and low self-esteem, lack of role models, and discouragement from teachers and parents, which makes the girls end up doing courses like hairdressing and liquid soap making. Additional factors include limited funds, lack of digital […] - [Capacity building webinar on Gender and Digital rights for women](https://wougnet.org/capacity-building-webinar-on-gender-and-digital-rights-for-women/): One of the reasons some women keep offline is due to lack of knowledge on their digital rights, which deprives them of opportunities that come with technology. On 12th September 2023, WOUGNET conducted a Capacity-building webinar on Gender and Digital Rights for Women with an aim of equipping Civil Society Organisations with knowledge and skills on gender and digital rights, and the need to integrate it in policies and programs. The webinar had 21 participants including WOUGNET members, feminists and young women. The webinar training began with welcome remarks from Roseline Babirye, Program assistant, Gender and ICT Policy Advocacy, who welcomed […] - [November 2023: Best Microsoft Word Keyboard Shortcuts](https://wougnet.org/october-2023-best-microsoft-word-keyboard-shortcuts/): If you create or edit Word documents often, take some time to learn a few MS Word keyboard shortcuts. Below, we’ll run through some of the best ones. As a bonus, many of these shortcuts work in other Microsoft Office applications like Excel and PowerPoint. This shortcut tutorial is mainly for Windows users, but we’ve included some keyboard shortcuts for macOS. If you use keyboard shortcuts on your macOS computer, you’ll notice that many of those keyboard shortcuts will also work on iPhones and iPads paired with external keyboards. Android users who use an external keyboard will find that many of these key combinations will […] - [Gender Justice is Under Attack: Countering Online Backlash in the Civic Space](https://wougnet.org/gender-justice-is-under-attack-countering-online-backlash-in-the-civic-space/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET)’s X  community witnessed a dynamic Tweet Chat on 27th September 2023 where women human rights defenders, feminists, gender activists, journalists and other human rights defenders convened online to discuss the crucial issue: “Gender Justice is Under Attack: Countering Online Backlash in the Civic Space.” The panelists including Ruth Nagudi from Media Focus on Africa, Carol Mukisa from Warm Hearts Foundation and Lorna Nagawa from Women’s Probono Initiative led the conversation that tackled various manifestations of online gender backlash, challenges faced by feminists in the digital spaces, repressive and oppressive legal frameworks, the future of online feminist […] - [Call For Proposals: Terms of Reference to Develop a Policy Brief on the Status of Movement Building in the Digital Age for the Structurally Silenced Women in Uganda Under Our Voice, Our Futures Project](https://wougnet.org/call-for-proposals-terms-of-reference-to-develop-a-policy-brief-on-the-status-of-movement-building-in-the-digital-age-for-the-structurally-silenced-women-in-uganda-under-our-voice-our-futures-proje/): Terms of Reference to Develop a Policy Brief on the Status of Movement Building in the Digital Age for the Structurally Silenced Women in Uganda Introduction   Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is a non-governmental organisation initiated in May 2000 by several women’s organisations in Uganda to develop and promote the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among women as tools to share information and address issues collectively.WOUGNET envisions an inclusive and just society where women and girls are enabled to use Information Communications Technologies (ICTs) for sustainable development.  WOUGNET in collaboration with Association for Progressive Communications (APC)  is implementing the […] - [October 2023: Operating System Installation](https://wougnet.org/october-2023-operating-system-installation/): Installing an operating system (OS) via a cold boot involves preparing a bootable installation media, setting the boot priority in the BIOS/UEFI settings, and following the on-screen instructions to install and configure the OS. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install an operating system (OS) via a cold boot: Remember, the exact steps may vary depending on the OS you’re installing and your computer’s hardware. Always back up your data before installing a new OS, as the process can potentially erase your files. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider seeking help from a professional. Compiled by the Letowon […] - [The risks and consequences of weak passwords.](https://wougnet.org/the-risks-and-consequences-of-weak-passwords/): A password is a string of characters used to verify the identity of a user during the authentication process. Passwords are typically used in tandem with a username, vary in length, and can contain letters, numbers, and special characters. They’re designed to be known only to the user. We recognize that passwords are important and are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to online accounts, devices, and files.  So, there is a need for a strong password for one to be safe and and protect data and information from bad actors and malicious software. Using a weak password is much like leaving […] - [Struggles faced by WHRDs and Strategies to ensure their Physical and Digital Security in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/struggles-faced-by-whrds-and-strategies-to-ensure-their-physical-and-digital-security-in-uganda/): Introduction Over the years, Uganda has been known for its participation in human rights activism, with women playing a significant role in championing various causes. In the pursuit of justice, equality and human rights, Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) have consistently proven their resilience and dedication to the cause.  However, in the increasingly digital world, they face unique challenges, particularly when it comes to digital security, safety and physical security. Some of these challenges include online harassment, lack of digital literacy, and physical threats from perpetrators, mainly because of the kind of work they do. Recognizing this, WOUGNET organised transformative capacity-building […] - [Our Voices Our Futures: Navigating Basics of Digital Security, Safety & Online Campaigning for Structurally Silenced Women](https://wougnet.org/our-voices-our-futures-navigating-basics-of-digital-security-safety-online-campaigning-for-structurally-silenced-women/): Introduction In an era where digital tools hold a lot of power and significance, access to information and the ability to express oneself online are crucial for women’s empowerment. However, in Uganda, structurally silenced women face unique challenges such as limited digital access, online harassment, and lack of digital literacy. Thus, it is important to equip women with skills to navigate the digital space safely and effectively while advocating for gender equality, especially structurally silenced women. WOUGNET, under the Our Voices Our Futures (OVOF) project, organised a training workshop at Fairway Hotel, Kampala aimed at equipping structurally silenced women with valuable […] - [September 2023: How to watch YouTube videos without Ads](https://wougnet.org/september-2023-how-to-watch-youtube-videos-without-ads/): The YouTube Ad Situation Before we get to the specific ways you can get an ad-free YouTube experience, it’s worth briefly clearing up what types of ads you’ll encounter in YouTube content: Not every type of ad-blocking solution will block every type of YouTube ad. Still, we’re chiefly concerned about those ads that you have to skip manually or otherwise interrupt your viewing. When it comes to sponsored content with adverts inside the video, no solution can do anything about that type of advertising. 1. Pay for YouTube Premium This is the most straightforward and effective way to get rid of […] - [Fostering Digital Rights and Transformation in Uganda: The Crucial Role of Innovation Hubs](https://wougnet.org/fostering-digital-rights-and-transformation-in-uganda-the-crucial-role-of-innovation-hubs/): Introduction Innovation hubs have emerged as dynamic catalysts for digital transformation in Uganda, serving as collaborative spaces where individuals converge to breathe life into their innovative ideas. Their significance in advancing digital rights and transformation cannot be overstated. During a panel discussion at the Uganda Internet Governance Forum 2023, held on August 24th, 2023, experts (Francis Ogweng – Ag.ACP/CCTV-Operations, Uganda Police Force, Sandra Aceng – Executive Director WOUGNET, Olga Niaga – Business and Investment Analyst, Hive Collab, Janepher Taaka – Gender and Inclusion Expert, Enabel Uganda moderated by Moses Owiny, Digital Rights Expert, Enabel in Uganda) gathered to explore this topic […] - [Why Women And Girls Need to Embrace Digital Technology](https://wougnet.org/why-women-and-girls-need-to-embrace-digital-technology/): Digital technologies are electronic systems and resources that help us learn, communicate, and play, such as computers, smartphones, smart televisions, and websites, among others. Digital technology means that devices can be more compact, faster, lighter, and more versatile. Huge amounts of information can be stored and moved around virtually instantaneously, including photos, audio, and videos. According to a study published by the European Commission, globally, only 17% of people working in technological fields (especially, ICT) are women, and those women earn 20% less than their male counterparts. In Uganda, women use the internet far less than men, according to a new survey […] - [Promoting Agroecology Assisted Transition to enhance food security and incomes among smallholders’ farmers through inclusive participation and digital technologies in Uganda (PATHS)](https://wougnet.org/promoting-agroecology-assisted-transition-to-enhance-food-security-and-incomes-among-smallholders-farmers-through-inclusive-participation-and-digital-technologies-in-uganda-paths/): A significant portion of the Ugandan population relies on agriculture as their primary source of income, encompassing both those with advanced education and those without. The cultivation of both staple and cash crops serves as the foundation for livelihoods, achieved through the sale of agricultural goods and labor on farms in exchange for wages. Therefore, with the aim of positively influencing and enhancing   livelihoods through agriculture, WOUGNET is implementing the PATHS Project in the Rwenzori Region that primarily targets farmer groups in the area. This initiative is being funded by HUMUNDI and it is being implemented in partnership with Joint Effort […] - [Navigating Misinformation Surrounding Civil Society Organisations Advancing Gender Equality In Uganda](https://wougnet.org/navigating-misinformation-surrounding-civil-society-organisations-advancing-gender-equality-in-uganda/): In recent times, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have played a tremendous role in advancing gender equality globally, and Uganda has been actively involved in this drive. However, just like in numerous spheres, misinformation has had a substantial detrimental effect on the intentions of these organizations, negatively affecting their true motives and impacts.  Misinformation is false or misleading information, unintentionally, presented as facts. Misinformation has the ability to hinder the efforts of CSOs and the progress they aim to achieve creating push-backs on the already gained achievements.  In this blog, we delve into the subject of misinformation surrounding CSOs dealing with gender […] - [WOUGNET’s visit to the ICT Committee at the Parliament of Uganda](https://wougnet.org/wougnets-visit-to-the-ict-committee-at-the-parliament-of-uganda/): On the 25th of July, Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) paid a visit to the ICT committee at the Parliament of Uganda. This visit was a follow-up to WOUGNET’s partnership with Internews with the primary objective of empowering women human rights defenders and journalists in Uganda to securely and safely participate and gain meaningful access to an open and free internet including the various social media platforms. The meeting commenced with welcome remarks from the Chair, Hon. Tonny Ayo (Member of Parliament for Kwania County), who recognised that with the evolving needs for information and communication technology (ICT), there is a […] - [WOUGNET's Engagement with the Uganda Police: Exploring Policy Concerns and Recommendations for Tackling Online Gender-Based Violence against Women](https://wougnet.org/wougnets-engagement-with-the-uganda-police-exploring-policy-concerns-and-recommendations-for-tackling-online-gender-based-violence-against-women/): Online gender-based violence refers to any act that uses technology, primarily the internet, to perpetrate harm, harassment, or discrimination against individuals based on their gender. It manifests in various forms, including but not limited to cyberbullying, revenge porn, doxing, stalking, trolling, hate speech, and threats of violence. With the rise of digital connectivity across Africa, the internet has opened up a world of opportunities for information sharing, economic growth, and social interaction. However, this newfound digital realm has also exposed individuals, particularly women, to a distressing phenomenon known as online gender-based violence (OGBV). Digital technologies have acted as a medium for […] - [Local Voices: Strengthening ICT Advocacy Skills & Resilience of CSOs & Media Organisations](https://wougnet.org/local-voices-strengthening-ict-advocacy-skills-resilience-of-csos-mediaorganisations/): The “Local Voices” project, funded by Internews, aimed at strengthening the capacities of Civil Society Organisations( CSOs) and media organisations in Uganda to effectively engage with legal frameworks and employ advocacy strategies. Recognising the role these entities play in shaping public opinions and influencing policy decisions, the project aimed to empower participants with knowledge and skills to bring about meaningful change. Women of Uganda Network, (WOUGNET) has long been dedicated to the advancement of women’s rights and gender equality. With a vision of harnessing Information and Communication Technologies(ICTs), for  sustainable development of women and girls, WOUGNET’s involvement was instrumental in ensuring […] - [August 2023: Having trouble moving files between Android and your iPhone](https://wougnet.org/august-2023-having-trouble-moving-files-between-android-and-you-iphone/): Transferring files between Android and iOS devices might seem challenging due to the different operating systems, but there are methods to do so securely. Here’s how you can safely move files between the two platforms: From Android to iOS: From iOS to Android: Safety Tips: Remember that different methods might work better for different scenarios. Choose the one that suits your needs and ensures the security of your data during the transfer process. - [Recognising the unique Challenges faced by Women in Rural Areas: What does it take for Women to Access and Use the Internet in Uganda?](https://wougnet.org/recognising-the-unique-challenges-faced-by-women-in-rural-areas-what-does-it-take-for-women-to-access-and-use-the-internet-in-uganda/):  Caption: Digital Literacy Training by WOUGNET  Even though the gender digital divide has been narrowing across all regions, women remain digitally marginalized in many of the world’s poorest countries, where online access could potentially have its most powerful effect. There are approximately 4.9 billion people online and 2.9 billion offline with the biggest percentage of those offline being the unprivileged communities, persons with disability, the rural poor, and rural elderly and these categories are majorly from developing countries. The digital divide often means a lack of access to broadband internet and access to wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi.  Uganda being a […] - [July 2023: Data Security](https://wougnet.org/july-2023-data-security/): In today’s digital age, ensuring the security of your data is paramount. Whether you’re an individual user or a business owner, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access and cyber threats is crucial. Follow these tech tips to enhance your data security: Remember, data security is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and adaptability. By following these tech tips and staying informed about the latest security trends, you can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Compiled by: Letowon Saitoti Abdi – Snr. Technical Support officer - [Exploring the Patterns of Online Violence against Women and Girls; its Impacts and Online Protection Mechanisms.](https://wougnet.org/exploring-the-patterns-of-online-violence-against-women-and-girls-its-impacts-and-online-protection-mechanisms/): IntroductionIn today’s digital age, the internet has become an integral part of our lives, offering numerous opportunities for connection, expression, and empowerment. However, alongside its benefits, the online world is also plagued by various forms of violence and abuse, specifically targeting women and girls. Online gender-based violence (OGBV) refers to any harmful act committed against an individual based on their gender, utilizing digital platforms to perpetrate violence, harassment, or discrimination. This blog aims to shed light on the patterns of OGBV, its far-reaching impacts, and the importance of online protection mechanisms.  Understanding the Patterns of OGBVOnline violence against women and girls […] - [The Importance of effective advocacy strategies for Civil Society Organizations](https://wougnet.org/the-importance-of-effective-advocacy-strategies-for-civil-society-organizations/): Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in advocating for social change and promoting the interests of marginalized communities. Advocacy is an essential tool for CSOs to influence public policy, raise awareness about issues, and bring about positive change in society. Whether they focus on human rights, environmental protection, or economic justice, civil society organizations often have to navigate complex political, social, and economic landscapes to achieve their goals through different strategies, including advocacy which is widely used by civil society. The ability of CSOs to Influence decisions through advocacy in order to address a problem/issue or to enhance visibility/public […] - [Balancing Security and Freedom: Cybercrime Legislation and Fundamental Rights](https://wougnet.org/balancing-security-and-freedom-cybercrime-legislation-and-fundamental-rights/): The internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate, but it has also ushered in new forms of risks, vulnerabilities, and crime, including cybercrime. As technology continues to evolve, so do the cyber threats that come with it. To combat this, governments around the world are enacting cybercrime legislation to protect their citizens online and to counter the previously unknown risks brought about by technology. However, it is essential to ensure that these laws do not impede freedom of expression, access to information, women’s rights online, data protection, and privacy. Oftentimes, governments enact laws that impede on the cyber […] - [Barriers Women Face in Accessing and Protecting Their Digital Rights in Uganda and the Potential Solutions](https://wougnet.org/barriers-women-face-in-accessing-and-protecting-their-digital-rights-in-uganda-and-the-potential-solutions/): Women’s rights are human rights that are essential and core for the full and equal participation of women in all areas of society. Unfortunately, they are often violated particularly online through various forms of harassment and violation, which has caused some women to withdraw from using the internet, leading to an increase in the gender digital divide.  According to International Telecommunication Union (ITU) findings, globally, in 2020, 62 percent of all men were using the Internet as compared to 57 percent of all women. World Wide Web data shows that globally, the divide remains wide in the low-developed countries (LDCs), where […] - [Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) at RightsCon 2023](https://wougnet.org/women-of-uganda-network-wougnet-at-rightscon-2023/): This year, RightsCon, the global summit organized by Access Now, will host its 12th edition from 5th to 8th June 2023 in Costa Rica with physical and online participation. RightsCon aims to bring stakeholders, tech companies, government representatives, and human rights defenders together so as to foster a future that respects digital rights.  In its hybrid format, RightsCon will present a diverse program consisting of over 600 sessions. WOUGNET  will actively participate during the summit.  WOUGNET’s participation in RightsCon will primarily revolve around key themes; Gender justice, gender backlash online, surveillance, data justice and governance, tech policy and ICT laws, cyber […] - [June 2023: Mobile device security](https://wougnet.org/june-2023-mobile-device-security/): Keeping a mobile device safe and secure involves a combination of physical measures and technical precautions. Here are some tips to help you achieve this: 1. Physical Security: 2. Software and Technical Security: By following these physical and technical security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of compromising your mobile device and personal data. Stay vigilant and proactive in maintaining the security of your mobile device to ensure a safe and enjoyable user experience. Compiled by: Letowon Saitoti Abdi – Snr Technical Support Officer - [Transforming Rural Women/Girls' World For Positive Change Through ICTs](https://wougnet.org/transforming-rural-women-girls-world-for-positive-change-through-icts/): NVIWODA creates resilience in the social and economic empowerment of women/girls at the grassroots/semi-urban areas in Uganda. Rural women in Uganda are poor and their livelihoods depend mostly on agriculture, producing less from farming and this increases their vulnerability to increasing risks of climatic changes. The girls drop out of school due to lack of school fees, and early pregnancies and their adult life miserably begins. NVIWODA has intervened with many social and economic programmes. This integrated and holistic approach has given birth to innovative ways of empowering women/girls to transform their livelihoods. The empowerment programmes range from entrepreneurship development, product […] - [Overcoming barriers to consistent and timely communication; women embrace the use of phones and digital Apps](https://wougnet.org/overcoming-barriers-to-consistent-and-timely-communication-women-embrace-the-use-of-phones-and-digital-apps/): Katosi Women Development Trust (KWDT) coordinates and works with more than 700 women organized in 30 formalized groups in Mukono District. Over the past 2 years, KWDT has extended its interventions to include more than 350 women from Buvuma, Buikwe, Kalangala, and Wakiso Districts. The women are the entry points into the communities and spearhead change programs. All groups have structures in place that supervise and monitor project activities and as the secretariat, KWDT monitors progress on implementation and changes by engaging with women leaders on various committees that include Production, Loan, WASH, and Women Advocacy committees.  One of the strategies […] - [ICT opportunities for Persons with Disability](https://wougnet.org/ict-opportunities-for-persons-with-disability/): It feels very comfortable working with the internet. Disabled women in development, DIWODE has organized a number of community outreaches, but out of a lot of strain. It was not until we got associated with WOUGNET and the Smile Project that we found relief. We must say, we have found a soft landing. DIWODE is happy with the ICT training that its staff acquired from WOUGNET. It’s worth noting that our community is 99% persons with disabilities most of whom had no opportunities for such training. With the data, airtime, and ICT skills, we were able to organize a successful medical […] - [The use of technology to effectively monitor NVIWODA's Projects](https://wougnet.org/the-use-of-technology-to-effectively-monitor-nviwodas-projects/): Before NVIWODA was associated with WOUGNET, the organization had a challenge of high costs and irregular physical monitoring of its projects. The situation worsened with the outbreak of COVID-19 and with a longtime lockdown, physical monitoring of projects was impossible, as the operation area is in Gomba District in central Uganda, but with the provision of the phones, from the SMILE project, we can now physically monitor while taking action pictures of the activities we are implementing. Figure 1: Besides classroom training farmers are conducted through study tours to learn modern urban Figure 2: Ms Nyarwa and Dr Zaali traversed 36 […] - [Empowered women empower women; the story of Nafula and her daughter](https://wougnet.org/empowered-women-empower-women-the-story-of-nafula-and-her-daughter/): Katosi Women Development Trust (KWDT) operates a revolving micro-credit scheme that supports women’s access to credit for startups and improves already existing micro businesses. Each of the 35 women groups comprises a loan committee. This committee is responsible for overseeing the program activities including approving loan applications, monitoring the progress of members’ businesses per individual, reminding borrowers of their payment dates, collecting the payments, and creating a functional link between KWDT and the beneficiaries. In order to sufficiently complete their tasks, KWDT contributes airtime to the loan committee every month which they use for coordinating the program.  This is the story […] - [Using Communication Transformation and Digital Advances through Social Media to fight against Gender-based Violence.](https://wougnet.org/using-communication-transformation-and-digital-advances-through-social-media-to-fight-against-gender-based-violence/): Very amazing how the ‘SMILE PROJECT’ has been not only transformative to the organization but the community as well. The impact the project has created through Warm Hearts Foundation is considerably life-changing. Like the Founder of Digital Royalty said, “Social media is the ultimate equalizer. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage.” The internet data given to us on a monthly basis by WOUGNET has enabled us to harness the positives of technology – especially for sensitive issues like GBV. The project has amplified our voice, as well as giving a voice to anyone willing to […] - [Empowering Communities: The Relevance of Digital Literacy and Security](https://wougnet.org/empowering-communities-the-relevance-of-digital-literacy-and-security/): Introduction In an increasingly digital world, the importance of digital literacy and security cannot be overstated. For the community we work in, these skills are not only essential but also transformative. Through our project, we have witnessed firsthand the relevance and impact of digital literacy and security for the community, empowering its members and bridging the digital divide. In this blog, we delve into the significance of digital literacy and security and how they have made a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. The Relevance of Digital Literacy and Security Digital literacy has opened up a world of […] - [May 2023: How to Secure Your WordPress Website](https://wougnet.org/may-2023-how-to-secure-your-wordpress-website/): Securing a WordPress website involves a multi-layered approach to protect against various threats and vulnerabilities, here are some measures to enhance the security of your WordPress website: Remember that security is an ongoing process, and staying updated with the latest security practices is essential to safeguard your WordPress website from potential threats. Compiled by: Letowon Saitoti Abdi – Snr Technical Support officer - [WOUGNET at the  Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum  2023](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-at-the-digital-rights-and-inclusion-forum-2023/): About DRIF23 The Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF) is a platform where conversations on digital policy in Africa are shaped, policy directions debated and partnerships forged for action. The 9th edition of the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum will take place between April 12th-14th 2023 under the theme: “ Building A Sustainable Internet for All”. The discussion will be attended by multi-country communities that contribute to promoting digital rights and inclusion in Africa.  The  DRIF23 event will involve physical convening in Nairobi, Kenya at Sarova Stanley Hotel with participation from Non-Government Organisations, Civil Society Organisations, academia, and policy makers. WOUGNET’s […] - [April 2023: How You Can Pin Drop Location in Google Maps on Mobile and Desktop 2023?](https://wougnet.org/april-2023-how-you-can-pin-drop-location-in-google-maps-on-mobile-and-desktop-2023/): How You Can Pin Location in Google Maps  A real-time view of the traffic situation, predicted toll costs, and other new features have recently been added to Google Maps. This demonstrates that Google Maps is more than just a route-finding tool for consumers. Users may drop a location on the map, save it, and share it with their friends and family, which is one of the app’s key features. When a location doesn’t have an address or is off the beaten path, this tool can be quite helpful. Users of Android, iOS, and desktop devices have access to the dropping pin […] - [Empowering Rural Women: How Digital Technologies Strengthened COVID-19 Response in Uganda](https://wougnet.org/empowering-rural-women-how-digital-technologies-strengthened-covid-19-response-in-uganda/): Caption: During one of the SMILE projects capacity building meetings Introduction In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, marginalized communities in rural areas of Uganda faced numerous challenges, including limited access to information, healthcare services, and resources. However, a groundbreaking project emerged, aiming to empower women’s rights organizations and enhance their capacity to respond effectively to the crisis. By leveraging digital technologies, this project revolutionized the landscape, bringing about positive change and empowering women in unimaginable ways. Digital Technologies in Strengthening COVID-19 Response in Uganda The SMILE project’s first objective was to strengthen the logistics capacity of women’s rights organizations. Through […] - [WOUGNET at the CSW67](https://wougnet.org/wougnet-at-the-csw67/): The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. It is the largest gathering of the 193 UN Member States and other stakeholders focused on the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. Here leaders, campaigners, policy-makers, Civil Society Organisations and researchers come together to take stock of the progress that has been made, and the work still required to achieve gender equality. The CSW is instrumental in promoting women’s rights, documenting the reality of women’s lives throughout the world, and […] - [March 2023: How to Convert Scanned Files into Searchable and Editable PDFs Using PDFelement](https://wougnet.org/march-2023-how-to-convert-scanned-files-into-searchable-and-editable-pdfs-using-pdfelement/): How to Convert Scanned Files into Searchable and Editable PDFs Converting scanned files into searchable and editable PDFs is a simple process that can save you time and make your documents more accessible. The first step is to use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software, which scans the document and recognizes the text on the page. This software is widely available online or as part of many document management systems. Once you have run the OCR software, the document can be saved as a searchable PDF, which allows you to search for specific words or phrases within the text. If you need […] - [Graphics Design: A better way to brand your organization online/offline](https://wougnet.org/graphics-design-a-better-way-to-brand-your-organization-online-offline/): Caption: A flyer used to invite WOUGNET members for a training Graphics design can be identified as the art of projecting ideas and experiences with the aid of visual and textual content. These may be through infographics, flyers, typography, videos, voiceovers, banners, and brochures among others. During the Digital Literacy Training On the 3rd Feb 2023, during the digital literacy training for its member organisations on how to use Canva for graphic design, we looked at examples of design tools used for graphic design which include such as Photoshop, Illustrator, In Design, Sketch, and Figma However during the training we focussed […] - [February 2023: How To Fix Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code On Android 2023?](https://wougnet.org/february-2023-how-to-fix-connection-problem-or-invalid-mmi-code-on-android-2023/): How To Fix Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code On Android: A connection problem or invalid MMI code is the number one issue that Android device users face. If you’re facing the same issue, don’t worry! This blog will help you to fix the connection problem or invalid MMI code on your Android device. We’ll overview the different possible causes of the connection problem and provide troubleshooting tips to solve it. Let us help you get back to using your Android device the way it should be used – with a stable and error-free connection! MMI codes are not used regularly by […] ## Pages - [Gallery 2](https://wougnet.org/gallery-2/) - [Gallery 1](https://wougnet.org/gallery-1/) - [Videos](https://wougnet.org/videos/) - [My Bookings](https://wougnet.org/events/my-bookings/): CONTENTS - [Tags](https://wougnet.org/events/tags/): CONTENTS - [Categories](https://wougnet.org/events/categories/): CONTENTS - [Locations](https://wougnet.org/events/locations/): CONTENTS - [Events](https://wougnet.org/events/): CONTENTS - [Careers](https://wougnet.org/careers/): [THJM_JOBS] - [Publications](https://wougnet.org/publications/) - [Our Members](https://wougnet.org/our-members/): Apply to become a member Let our past projects inspire your next vision, and see how we can bring your ideas to life with expertise and creativity. Apply Now Our Members Join a community of like-minded organisations looking to promote the use of ICTs by women and girls for gender equality and sustainable development. Council for Economic Empowerment for Women of Africa, Uganda Chapter (CEEWA-U) Council for Economic Empowerment for Women of Africa, Uganda Chapter (CEEWA-U) is a non-governmental, non- partisan professional women organization. It was formed in 1995 and was legally registered in 1997/98. CEEWA- U boasts of 27 years […] - [Our Gallery](https://wougnet.org/our-gallery/) - [Media](https://wougnet.org/media/): Pioneering the future of the using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) among women as tools to share information and address issues collectively. Search Search - [Our Projects](https://wougnet.org/our-projects/): Our community-driven projects Apac district Rural Connectivity Broadband Network Women One Year (2024) Enhancing the growth and sustainability of the novel technical community in Apac district, Northern Uganda WOUGNET established the Kubere Information Centre (KIC) in 2005 in Northern Uganda, a digital hub that leverages Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to empower women and girls across various sectors. Women in Journalism and Politics: Countering Gendered Disinformation in Uganda The project seeks to create a robust network of women leaders, journalists and key stakeholders to counter the spread of gendered disinformation in both politics and media. Uganda Gendered Disinformation Women 2024 – […] - [Projects](https://wougnet.org/projects/): Our community-driven projects Apac District Rural Connectivity Broadband Network Women 2024 (1yr) Enhancing the growth and sustainability of the novel technical community in Apac district, Northern Uganda. To foster community participation, ownership and sustainability of the WOUGNET Rural Connectivity Broadband Network (RCBN), while nurturing a comprehensive approach to inclusive internet accessibility, in Apac district, Northern Uganda  Women in Journalism and Politics: Countering Gendered Disinformation in Uganda. The project seeks to create a robust network of women leaders, journalists and key stakeholders to counter the spread of gendered disinformation in both politics and media. Uganda Gendered Disinformation Women 2024 – 2025 Our […] - [About Us](https://wougnet.org/about-us/): Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is a non-governmental organization initiated in May 2000 by several women’s organizations in Uganda to develop the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among women as tools to share information and address issues collectively.   Our story WOUGNET’s mission is to promote and support the use of ICTs by women and women organizations in Uganda, so that they can take advantage of the opportunities presented by ICTs in order to effectively address national and local problems of sustainable development. The new ICTs, in particular, email and the Internet facilitate communication […] - [WOUGNET](https://wougnet.org/): Empowering Women and Girls Through ICT Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is a non-governmental organization initiated in May 2000 by several women’s organizations in Uganda to develop the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among women as tools to share information and address issues collectively. About Us Our Projects Empower women and nurture an inclusive digital world Who we are Our values are at the heart of our work at WOUGNET. We strive to improve conditions of life for women by enhancing their capacities and opportunities for exchange, collaboration and information sharing.  What we do We promote and support the […] - [Media Center](https://wougnet.org/media-center/) - [Contact Us](https://wougnet.org/contact-us/): Contact Us. We’re here to help! Reach out for inquiries, support, or collaboration opportunities. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we look forward to connecting with you. Let’s Talk Talk to us about! Stay connected with us for updates, resources, and insights on our work at Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) First Name Last Name Email Address Message Contact us Email info@wougnet.org Location Head Office: Plot 67 Namuwongo, Bukasa Road | Kampala (U) Apac Office: Kubere Information Center (KIC) Or give us a call Head Office: +256 394 823 109  | +256 800 200 510 Apac Office: +256 782 972 […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/wougnet.org/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)