By Our Reporter
The Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Hon. Mariam Wangadya, has engaged members of the public in a human rights awareness campaign at the ongoing Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) exhibition in Lugogo, Kampala, answering questions on fundamental freedoms, the rights of suspects and the responsibility of citizens to report violations.
Wangadya personally visited the Commission’s exhibition stall on Friday morning, spending time with visitors who sought information about human rights and the services offered by the institution.
She answered their questions, listened to their concerns and distributed Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, as well as annual and special reports, to help them understand the Commission’s mandate.
The UHRC established its stall at the exhibition on Friday, October 2, 2026, and has since been using the event to bring human rights education closer to the public. Through its participation, the Commission is providing information about its work and helping visitors understand where they can turn when they experience or witness violations of their rights.
Wangadya’s presence at the stall created an opportunity for members of the public to interact directly with the Commission’s leadership. Visitors were able to raise issues affecting them, seek clarification on human rights matters and share their opinions about the institution’s performance in promoting and protecting rights across the country.
Speaking about the experience, Wangadya expressed satisfaction with the public’s willingness to engage with the Commission, noting that the interaction had provided an opportunity to answer questions while also gathering feedback from citizens.
“I have seen for myself the enthusiasm of the general public. They have questions; I have given them answers and, at the same time, we have received feedback from them on how they view our performance,” she said.
Among the issues discussed was the need to strengthen human rights education in schools, learning institutions and local communities. Some visitors wanted guidance on how to introduce human rights awareness activities in their institutions and villages, highlighting the role ordinary citizens can play in promoting respect for fundamental rights and freedoms.
The rights of the boy child also featured in the discussions, with visitors raising concerns about the need to pay greater attention to issues affecting boys. The engagement provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of protecting every child and ensuring that the rights of different groups in society receive appropriate attention.
The right to a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence were also among the issues raised during Wangadya’s interaction with the public. Some visitors expressed concern about ongoing anti-corruption operations involving the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balam Barugahara, and the need to safeguard the rights of suspects during investigations and other legal proceedings.
In response, Wangadya said the minister had good intentions but emphasised that the rights and freedoms of suspects must be respected. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that efforts to combat corruption are undertaken in accordance with the law and that every person is afforded the protection and due process guaranteed under the law.
Beyond answering questions, Wangadya encouraged Ugandans to report human rights violations to the Commission so that their concerns can receive appropriate attention. She distributed stickers and keyholders carrying the UHRC’s toll-free telephone numbers to help visitors remember how to contact the institution when they need assistance.
The materials are intended to make it easier for citizens to access the Commission’s reporting channels without having to search for contact information when a human rights concern arises. The initiative also reinforces the message that human rights protection requires public awareness and the willingness of citizens to speak out against violations.
Several members of the public also used the engagement to appreciate Wangadya for her efforts in promoting and protecting human rights. Their feedback provided the Commission with an opportunity to hear citizens’ expectations directly and better understand the issues they believe require attention.
During the exhibition, Wangadya also shared the Commission’s Independence Day message, calling upon Ugandans to support the UHRC in carrying out its mandate. The message emphasised the importance of cooperation between citizens and public institutions in building a society where individual rights and freedoms are respected.
The annual UMA exhibition, which brings together businesses, public institutions and members of the public, is expected to conclude on Sunday, October 11, 2026. For participating institutions, the event provides an opportunity to showcase their services, answer public questions and establish closer connections with the communities they serve.
The UHRC’s participation reflects its efforts to make human rights education more accessible by engaging citizens in spaces they regularly visit. Through direct interaction, educational materials and information about reporting channels, the Commission is seeking to ensure that more Ugandans understand their rights and know where to seek help when those rights are violated.
As the exhibition continues towards its conclusion, the Commission’s message remains focused on awareness, accountability and public participation, reminding Ugandans that protecting human rights begins with understanding them and taking action whenever they are threatened
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