Activists call for laws that protect children

By Oyet Okwera

Activists want by-laws against those who violate children's rights. The activists identify defilement as the biggest vice and statistics indicate that about 5 out of 10 girls are defiled monthly.

The Uganda demographic and health survey of 2011 indicates that 24% of girls between 15 and 19 are pregnant or have already had a child.

Some children in Najjembe sub-county, Buikwe district are working in sugarcane plantations at the expense of education and this has prompted activists to push for by-laws against child abuse.

The process of enacting by-laws recently began at Kasoga primary school during a function organized by Share An Opportunity (SAO) to address abuse of children rights.

The major issues children raised include; meeting their basic needs, care, upbringing and education.

Martin Kiiza, the Secretary General National Council for Children (NCC) advised parents to fullfill their primary roles of educating their children. Kiiza said as children grow up, it is important that all leaders respect their rights and punish wrong elements.

“You will have my support in enacting by-laws against those who abuse rights of children in Najjembe. I urge parents to play a role by working with district authorities in addressing these challenges,” said Kiiza              

Kiiza was recently speaking at Kasoga primary school in Najjembe during a function organised by Share An Opportunity (SAO) in which children petitioned district leaders of Buikwe on their rights.

Kiiza also advised parents to start educating their children because it helps increase their esteem in future.

“There is no doubt that education will help shape a child holistically and offer a better foundation,” said Kiiza

Florence Soobi, the national director of SAO said it is important to help children know their rights and empower them speak openly.