Kadondi, who previously served as Vice Guild President, defeated her closest rival, Hannah Karema, the former miss Uganda, in a race that has been widely described as a turning point for women’s participation in student leadership at the university. The contest marked a rare moment in Makerere’s history where the strongest contenders for the top seat were both women.

Speaking shortly after her victory, Kadondi expressed gratitude to the student body and emphasized unity moving forward.
“This win is not just mine, it belongs to every student who believes in inclusive leadership. I am committed to serving all students and ensuring their voices are heard,” she said.

Her rival, Karema, who also ran a visible and competitive campaign, conceded defeat and called for collective progress.
“The outcome reflects the will of the students. I congratulate Kadondi and urge all of us to support her leadership for the good of Makerere,” she noted.

Kadondi’s win places her at the helm of one of the most influential student leadership positions in Uganda, a role that has historically been dominated by male leaders. The prominence of two female candidates in the final stretch of the race signals a shift in campus political dynamics, with growing acceptance of women in leadership roles.

The election attracted strong participation across the university’s colleges, reflecting the high stakes associated with the guild presidency. Known for its intensity and political undertones, Makerere’s guild race often tests candidates’ mobilization strength, policy appeal, and resilience.

Analysts say the emergence of women as leading contenders highlights gradual progress in breaking down barriers that have traditionally limited female participation in student politics, including access to resources and entrenched perceptions about leadership.

Kadondi’s campaign centered on student welfare, inclusive governance, and strengthening engagement between students and university management issues that resonated with a broad section of the electorate. Her prior experience in guild leadership is also credited with boosting confidence among voters.

The Makerere guild presidency has long been viewed as a stepping stone to national leadership, with several former holders of the office going on to play key roles in Uganda’s political and public spheres. Kadondi’s victory, therefore, not only elevates her as a student leader but also adds to the growing pipeline of young women entering influential leadership spaces.

She is expected to be sworn in in the coming days, officially beginning her tenure amid high expectations from the student body.