In Uganda, the oil and gas sector, traditionally dominated by men, is witnessing the rise of inspirational women like Florence Kiconco, a single mother and a pioneer in challenging societal norms. Florence’s journey to a career in this field began with her enrollment at the Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba, where she pursued a demanding training program to gain essential skills for this technically intensive industry.

Despite societal and structural challenges, Florence rolled up her sleeves and embraced the opportunities in this burgeoning sector. Today, she works in roles once thought to be the preserve of men, showcasing that women can thrive in male-dominated industries with the right skills, determination, and support. Her story underscores the importance of providing training and mentorship programs to empower women to enter fields like energy and technology.

Florence’s story aligns with WLEDE’s mission to foster gender equality and support women in non-traditional careers. By sharing her success, WLEDE hopes to inspire young girls to dream beyond societal expectations and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Uganda’s oil and gas sector is rapidly growing, offering opportunities to build a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Advocating for women’s participation is not just a call for equity but also a necessity for sustainable development.

WLEDE is proud to amplify such narratives, demonstrating that gender equity is not just an ideal but a necessity for sustainable progress. Florence’s story is a rallying call for organizations, policymakers, and individuals to continue breaking barriers for women everywhere.

For a deeper dive into Florence’s inspiring story, visit the original feature in the Daily Monitor