Mrs. Museveni warns against child abuse during COVID-19

COVID-19|LOCKDOWN|HEALTH 

KAMPALA - The First Lady and Education Minister, Janet Museveni has warned parents and local leaders against the ongoing abuse of children during the lockdown.

The First Lady says that there is a notable increase in under-age girls drawn into commercial sex for money, food and other material needs.

 "Child marriages are also now used as a way of coping with financial hardships. Some families marry off young girls in exchange for dowry or bride price. This not only destroys the future of these young girls but it also means that there will be an increase in the birth of unwanted children and consequently abandonment or unsafe abortions."  

The First Lady, who is the Founder and Patron of Uganda Youth Forum (UYF), made the remarks yesterday, as she officiated the High-Level Dialogue; which she hosted at State House, Entebbe.

The Dialogue was held, to commemorate, the International Youth Day. Uganda's theme of the day was, "Positioning Urban Youths for Socio-Economic Transformation."

Schools were closed on March 20, by President Yoweri Museveni, to avoid the spread of COVID-19; and about 15 million students were sent home. But, Mrs. Museveni is concerned that these children are living dangerously in their homes, which should have been more secure.

Mrs. Museveni added, "It is painful to note that some parents and family members have become the main perpetrators of violence against children."

She called upon the parents, communities and the local leaders to step up the protection of children and bring back the communal upbringing of children.

Mrs. Museveni appealed to all Ugandans to make themselves, "Available to the community and become part of the effort to counter and mitigate these very negative forces that are threatening a whole generation of children."

 She noted, "It is true that children are going through a difficult time and they need love, support and guidance. My prayer is that you can be part of the solution as we seek to put an end to this negative development in our society. Remember that when you lift someone up, you also rise."

"So, I am counting on you and I have confidence that your participation in this effort can and will make a difference in the lives of our children," the First Lady appealed. "The parents must know that giving children a safe environment at home allows them to go out in the world with confidence and then return home to recharge; and it should give you, the caregiver, satisfaction."

The First also said, "Parents please know that your children's home is their sanctuary; therefore, the adults in the family need to treat each other respectfully, demonstrating that no violence - physical or verbal - is tolerated, thus setting an example to the children and inspiring confidence in them regarding their security. Children like routine, and this is what they are used to when they are at school."