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Seven women have so far declared interest in running for the presidency.
The nomination of presidential candidates will take place from 23–24 September 2025.
Peace Merisha Akello
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Akello Peace Merisha, a recent graduate of Kyambogo University, is fast emerging as a powerful voice in Uganda’s political and activist circles.
Raised in a politically tense region, her experiences shaped her commitment to speaking up for the marginalised, especially women and youth.
Her breakthrough came during a campus debate where her bold stance on gender parity gained national attention.
Forgoing the corporate route, Peace embraced grassroots activism, organising school outreaches, community dialogues, and digital campaigns tackling gender-based violence, corruption, and health care issues.
She is a staunch advocate for women’s rights and mentors teenage girls in leadership and reproductive health.
Known for her fearless commentary, she has declared her interest in contesting in Uganda’s 2026 elections.
Political analysts already regard her as one of the country’s most promising future leaders. Peace stands as a symbol of a new generation, authentic, unbought, and unafraid to challenge the system.
Her journey is just beginning, but her impact is undeniable.
Nancy Kalembe
Nancy Kalembe is a Ugandan entrepreneur, political activist, and the only woman to contest for the presidency in Uganda's 2021 general elections.
Born on September 15, 1980, in the Iganga District of Uganda's Busoga region, Kalembe was one of 18 children.
She is the daughter of George Patrick Bageya, the former local council V chairman of Iganga, and Aida Cissy Kubaaza.
Kalembe attended Mt St Mary's College Namagunga for her Uganda Certificate of Education and Mariam High School for her Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education.
In 2007, she earned a bachelor's degree in Population Studies from Makerere University.
A former student-athlete, Kalembe qualified for the 2004 Summer Olympics as a track athlete. However, the government could not afford to send all the qualifying athletes to Athens, according to her account.
Before venturing into politics, Kalembe worked as a news anchor for Uganda Broadcasting Corporation, as well as for banks and oil companies in both Nigeria and Uganda.
In 2003, she entered the Miss Uganda competition on a dare from friends after being labelled a tomboy.
She made it to the top five and was crowned Miss Intelligence, which led to a job with Sanyu FM radio station.
Kalembe also pursued a career in film and television, appearing on The Apprentice Africa in 2008.
She is the founder of Spring Clean, a cleaning company, and the CEO of Mbalimbali Ltd, a pineapple juice and jam-producing company based in Nakawa.
She married in 2007, though she and her husband later divorced.
They have two children together. Kalembe's 2021 presidential campaign focused on addressing unemployment, economic inequality, and advocating for a more inclusive political system.
Yvonne Mpambara
Yvonne Mpambara, 33, holds a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University and a Master of Laws from the University of East London.
Born in Kanungu and raised in Kabale District, she has a background as a social justice lawyer.
She has declared her candidacy for the presidency of Uganda for the 2026–2031 term, presenting it as a bold step towards national renewal, healing, justice, and prosperity for all.
Yvonne advocates a leadership shift, where power returns to the people through elections or people-led political pressure and social movements.
Her vision centres on representing all Ugandans, including women and youth, persons with disabilities, veterans, feminists, farmers, boda boda riders, creatives, sex workers, gig economy workers, medics, and all those living hand-to-mouth.
She particularly champions those marginalised, discriminated against, or persecuted for speaking truth to power.
Rejecting extravagant campaigns, Yvonne vows not to misuse public funds on empty rallies or political gimmicks, instead calling on Ugandans to #ShiftThePower and challenge the entrenched political culture.
She seeks to end what she describes as the “old game of politics” and usher in an inclusive, accountable government.
Ayeza Abigail Victoria
Ayeza Abigail Victoria (22) plans to run despite her parents' concerns over the risks involved. She is motivated by the government's unfulfilled promises and is determined to pursue the presidency.
Jorine Najjemba
Jorine Najjemba (20), a Senior Six vacist from Nkowe, has also entered the race, with the slogan “An Open Door to a New Uganda for Everyone.”
Pollin Nankambwe
Pollin Nankambwe (24), a Law student from Uganda Christian University, aims to tackle corruption at its roots and build an equal, corruption-free society.
Voniter Nassanga
Voniter Nassanga, a 20-year-old student, seeks the presidency to advocate for single mothers, who suffer due to neglect by irresponsible men.
She also calls for more youth involvement in leadership.