The Rise of Anita Among: A Journey from Bukedea to the Speaker’s Chair.

By Arineatwe Patricia- Updated at 07:21 EAT on Wednesday 6th March 2024

Courtesy Photo: Rt. Hon Anita Annet Among, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda

In the heart of Uganda’s political landscape, a new chapter has begun with the election of Anita Among as the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda in 2022. Among’s journey to the Speaker’s chair is a tale of determination, ambition, and a woman’s unwavering pursuit of a better future for her country.

Early Life and Education:
Born on November 23, 1973, in the Bukedea District of Uganda, Anita Among grew up with a passion for education and a desire to make a difference in her community. She pursued her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in  Administration from Makerere University, and later earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Kampala International University. These academic achievements laid the foundation for her future political career.

Political Beginnings:
Anita Among’s political journey began in 2007 when she ran for the Bukedea District Woman legislator position on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket. Although she lost the seat, she remained undeterred and continued to work towards her goal. In 2011, she ran again and was unsuccessful. However, in 2016, she contested as an Independent and won the Bukedea District Woman legislator seat in the 10th Parliament.

Joining the National Resistance Movement (NRM):
In 2020, Among made a bold move by joining the ruling NRM party. This decision proved to be a turning point in her political career, as she was subsequently elected to the 11th Parliament in 2021, unopposed, as the Bukedea District Woman MP. Her loyalty to the NRM party was rewarded when she was nominated for the position of Deputy Speaker of the 11th Parliament and won the race.

The Speaker’s Chair:
Following the untimely death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah in March 2022, Anita Among was elected as the new Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda. Her victory marked a new chapter in her political journey and a significant milestone for women in Ugandan politics. Among now faces the challenge of unifying a divided Parliament and navigating the complex political landscape of Uganda.

Conclusion:
Anita Among’s journey from a young girl in Bukedea to the Speaker’s chair in the Parliament of Uganda is a testament to her determination, resilience, and commitment to her country. As she takes on the role of Speaker, the eyes of the nation will be on her, watching to see how she will use her newfound power to shape the future of Uganda.

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