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As we look back at the milestone pronouncement made by Alur Kingdom in collaboration with MEMPROW, we can't help but marvel at the progress that has been made in empowering girls and women for sustainable peace and development. The Mentoring and Empowerment Programme for Young Women (MEMPROW) has been at the forefront of building young women's agency and fostering a feminist movement for an inclusive and violence-free society in Uganda.

Since 2014, MEMPROW has been working closely with the Alur Kingdom in the West Nile region, engaging cultural and traditional leaders in gender and human rights training. Through gender awareness dialogues and advocacy meetings, MEMPROW and the Kingdom have been able to address harmful norms and practices that limit the potential of girls and women.

One of the major achievements of this collaboration was the development of pronouncements under the theme Working towards upholding girls' and women's rights for sustainable Peace and Development in Alur Kingdom. This historic event, presided over by His Majesty, Philip Olarker, Rauni III, King of Alur Kingdom, brought together over 200 dignitaries, including chiefs of all the kingdom's chiefdoms and religious leaders.

The pronouncements, endorsed by all present, highlighted key issues such as women's access to land, protection of girls from sexual violence, and the prevention of forced early marriages. This commitment by cultural and religious leaders has paved the way for a more inclusive and violence-free community in Alur Kingdom.

The translation of the pronouncement into the local Alur language has further strengthened its impact, allowing for wider dissemination and implementation by chiefs, clan leaders, and the community at large. Organizations across Uganda now reference this pronouncement in their gender-sensitive programs, showcasing the ripple effect of this collaborative effort.

As we reflect on the journey from the pronouncement to the present, it is evident that the efforts of Alur Kingdom and MEMPROW have not only empowered girls and women but have also laid the foundation for a more equitable and peaceful society. The commitment of cultural and religious leaders to upholding women's rights is a testament to the progress that can be achieved through collaboration and advocacy.

In conclusion, the impact of Alur Kingdom's efforts to empower girls and women through collaboration with MEMPROW for sustainable peace and development is a shining example of what can be achieved when duty bearers, donors, and the community come together in support of gender equality and human rights. The journey continues, but the strides made so far are a cause for celebration and a call to action for continued advocacy and empowerment.