Ann Lumumba Todwong, wife of National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General Richard Todwong, has been sworn in as the chairperson of the National Women’s Council after winning the position unopposed. Her appointment places her at the helm of a statutory body mandated to promote women’s participation in Uganda’s social, economic and political development.

Lumumba, also identified in election reports as Ann Lumumba Ruyondo, secured the position during elections held on September 4, 2026, at Kyambogo College School in Kampala. Her victory followed the withdrawal of independent candidate Joy Ruth Acheng, who stepped aside before the declaration of the results, leaving Lumumba as the sole candidate for the position.

Following her election and swearing-in, Richard Todwong congratulated his wife and her executive team for earning the confidence of women across the country. In a message shared on social media, the NRM Secretary General expressed optimism about the new leadership and encouraged the team to use its mandate to advance the interests of women.

Todwong urged the new executive to champion the WanawakeMbele agenda by strengthening women’s voices, promoting their welfare and advancing their empowerment. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that women across Uganda benefit from leadership initiatives that address their concerns and improve their participation in national affairs.

According to the NRM’s account of the election, Acheng withdrew from the race following consultations, explaining that she did not want to divide women or the ruling party. She also called upon her supporters to work with Lumumba, paving the way for the latter’s unopposed victory in the contest.

The NRM also secured the positions of vice-chairperson, finance secretary and publicity secretary without opposition, completing its sweep of the four top leadership positions. Lumumba succeeds Faridah Kiboowa, taking over an institution that serves as a platform for organising women, coordinating their activities and promoting their involvement in national development.

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The National Women’s Council is mandated to represent women’s interests, encourage their participation in decision-making and create channels through which their social and economic concerns can be addressed. Under Lumumba’s leadership, the council is expected to continue promoting initiatives that strengthen women’s welfare, expand opportunities and support their contribution to Uganda’s development. Following her election, Lumumba thanked women leaders for the trust they had placed in her and pledged to fulfil her campaign promises with their support. As she begins her tenure, congratulations from her husband and other supporters mark the start of her leadership, with expectations that her executive will translate its mandate into meaningful progress for women across the country.