What motherhood taught us about love, strength and sacrifice

Motherhood is one of life’s most transformative experiences — filled with joy, sacrifice, exhaustion, and unconditional love.

While every mother’s journey is different, many share the same sleepless nights, constant worry, and deep sense of responsibility that comes with raising a child.

As the world celebrated Mother’s Day, Dr. Susan Nakanwagi and Kerion Wanjuzi reflected on how motherhood has changed their lives, reshaped their priorities, and taught them to appreciate both the small moments and the strength they never knew they had.

Dr. Susan Nakanwagi (PhD), senior lecturer, Nkumba University

Dr. Susan Nakanwagi (PhD), Senior Lecturer, Nkumba University

Being a mother is one of those experiences you can never be fully prepared for. Motherhood stretched me to limits I had never encountered before—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Knowing that I am responsible for an entire human being is something that sobers me daily. It constantly pushes me to evaluate and re-evaluate my life choices to ensure that everything I do contributes to being the best mother for my child.

Motherhood also introduced me to the true meaning of unconditional love. No matter how tiring, exhausting, or frustrating it may sometimes be, I look at my son’s smile and know that, if the hands of time were turned back, I would do it all again in a heartbeat.

Lastly, many people do not tell you this, but once you become a mother, your sleep schedule is never the same again.

Kerion Wanjuzi, an Assistant Officer Consumer Care at Uganda Communications Commission.

Kerion Wanjuzi, Assistant Officer, Consumer Care at Uganda Communications Commission

There is no hood like motherhood, and I can confirm—the initiation is wild. I appreciate my mother so much more now. God knew exactly what He was doing when He blessed me with motherhood.

He knew it would slow me down and teach me to treasure the tiniest moments, like my children’s laughter bouncing through the house or hearing “Mummy” for the 100th time before 8 a.m. Somehow, it is all pure joy.

I am also far more conscious about my health these days. I used to wonder how my parents managed to sleep half-awake and half-asleep every night. Well… now it is my turn.

I am more alert than the askari, and the musawo’s number is now a VIP contact in my phone. I never thought it would be me, but here we are.

Tired, alert, soft, and strong—I love being a mummy. All of it.