Bishop Kagodo warns of growing domestic violence driven by neglect, greed

MUKONO - The Bishop of Mukono Diocese, Enos Kitto Kagodo, has attributed the rising cases of domestic violence to men who neglect their responsibilities and fail to provide for their families.

Bishop Kagodo noted that many households are now being sustained by women who have taken on the role of heads of families, despite their husbands being present and financially capable.

“It is unfortunate that some men fail to fulfil their God-given responsibilities as heads of families. Some do not even provide basic needs and are instead focused on accumulating wealth without the willingness to spend it,” he said.

The prelate made the remarks during a Palm Sunday service at St Andrew Church of Uganda in Misindye Parish, Seeta Archdeaconry, Goma Division, Mukono Municipality.

He added that such individuals are also behind the growing cases of church land grabbing, reclaiming land that had been donated by their ancestors for religious purposes decades ago.

Bishop Kagodo also challenged women, saying some contribute to family neglect by failing to support their households despite having some income, leaving the burden entirely to their husbands.

During the service, the bishop confirmed several Christians into the Anglican faith and urged them to remain steadfast in their religion instead of joining emerging religious sects.

Bishop Kagodo confirms Christians during Palm Sunday service at St. Andrew Church in Misindye Parish, Seeta Archdeaconry. (Credit: Henry Nsubuga)

However, he expressed concern after none of the godparents of the 42 candidates, 29 girls and 13 boys, attended the confirmation ceremony despite their role in guiding the children’s spiritual growth.

In his report, the host priest, Esmond Serunjogi, briefed the bishop on the ongoing church construction project, which is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

He noted that once completed, the church will be commissioned to pave the way for other development projects.

Serunjogi also highlighted a recent health camp organised by the church, which attracted a large number of residents, demonstrating the growing need for health services within the community.

Meanwhile, the Archdeacon of Seeta Archdeaconry, Edward Balamaze, raised concern over rising cases of child abuse in the community.

He cited last week’s incident in which a woman was arrested for allegedly burning the hands of her nephew with a heated polythene bag after the child reportedly stole sh100,000 on Eid day.

Balamaze also urged parents to dedicate more time to counselling their children, noting that many are silently facing life-threatening challenges at school or within their communities without their parents’ knowledge.

“We also heard of a Senior Six candidate who took her own life after being mocked by classmates for scoring 19 points, just one point short of her 20-point target, in the 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education exams. It is very unfortunate,” he said.

He called on families and communities to play a more active role in supporting and guiding young people through difficult circumstances.