Kampala, Uganda – The Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Islamic Finance Cooperative Union (UGIFICU), Dr. Wardah Rajab Gyadenda, has called on corporate women across Uganda to actively champion the gospel of economic empowerment, emphasizing that financial stability is fundamental to family happiness and community harmony.

Dr. Gyadenda made the remarks during her keynote address at the inaugural Corporate Mothers Summit 2026, held at Hotel Africana in Kampala. The one-day event brought together corporate mothers from diverse professional backgrounds to discuss strategies for advancing women's economic participation and financial inclusion.

In her address, Dr. Gyadenda underscored the transformative power of financial independence, cautioning that money, while essential, should not become a source of marital strife or family discord.

"Money is the source of happiness in a family and community, and should not be the cause for divorce and disharmony," she stated, rallying attendees to embrace the holistic approach advanced by UGIFICU for the betterment of humanity across all levels.

The summit, which marks a significant milestone for ZIA Smart Consults International Ltd to professional women, highlighted the role of Islamic finance principles in fostering sustainable economic empowerment. The Union promotes Sharia-compliant financial models including interest-free financing (Qard Hasan) and cost-plus financing (Murabaha) as tools for inclusive growth.

The maiden summit was well-attended by corporate mothers from various sectors. Notable among the dignitaries was Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, the Presidential Advisor on Children and Women Affairs, alongside officials from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Education and Sports and the private sector

Hon. Nakiwala Kiyingi, a seasoned businesswoman and politician who previously served as Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, lent her support to the initiative, reinforcing the government's commitment to women's economic advancement.

The Corporate Mothers Summit aligns with broader national efforts to promote financial inclusion through community-based savings and credit cooperatives. Recent government initiatives have earmarked significant funding to support Islamic SACCOs across the country, with the Microfinance Support Centre serving as a channel for funding organized community groups.

The event also comes amid growing momentum for Islamic finance in Uganda, following the legalisation of Islamic banking, takaful (Islamic insurance), and Islamic microfinance, which has created an enabling environment for financial innovation.

Dr. Gyadenda's call to action resonates with the Union's vision of empowering women through financial literacy, savings culture, and access to ethical financial services. UGIFICU continues to champion grassroots mobilization and capacity building, working alongside religious leaders, women's groups, and district initiatives to promote economic transformation