Madi leaders to champion the re-entry of child mothers into schools

Adjumani | Cultural and religious leaders in the Adjumani district, led by Paramount Chief (His Royal Highness) Simon Suru Baru, have pledged to advocate for the reintegration of child mothers into schools.

This follows alarming statistics from the district education department, which highlight the widespread problem of sexual violence against young girls.

A grim reality of sexual violence.

According to a report from the Department of Education, Adjumani has documented 1,809 cases of sexual violence against teenage girls in the last five years. Yearly figures show 360 cases in 2020, 515 in 2021, 383 in 2022, 322 in 2023, and 229 in 2024.

Despite these challenges, the district has made progress in accordance with Uganda’s 2022 Revised Guidelines on the Prevention and Management of Teenage Pregnancy in Schools.

In 2024 alone, 78 child mothers were re-enrolled in primary schools, and 117 were re-admitted to secondary schools.

The Paramount Chief emphasized the importance of culture in addressing these concerns. He announced plans to establish a research department within the cultural institution to develop by-laws that are consistent with Madi traditions and the Ugandan Constitution.

“Our tradition used to be strong, but now it’s eroded. We will empower all chiefdoms to fight sexual violence against children. Marriage used to be respected as a foundation for family and community, but today, it’s driven by mere sexual desires,” the Paramount Chief stated.

Richard Kaijuka, district vice chairperson, advocated for increased enforcement in sub-counties with high rates of sexual violence.

“If cultural and religious leaders play their roles effectively, cases of sexual violence can be reduced,” Kaijuka noted.

Adjumani’s principal education officer, Philip Akuku Kayakaya, highlighted the potential of cultural and religious leaders to foster behavioral change through community dialogues.

“Chiefdoms and clan chiefs can educate and shape the reproductive health behaviors of young people and families while advocating for sustainable income-generating activities,” Akuku said.

He also stressed the importance of positive cultural practices. “Cultural leaders can inspire people to improve their welfare, adopt healthy lifestyles, and address diseases affecting their communities.”

Resident District Commissioner Peter Taban Data observed that Western cultural influences had a negative impact on traditional African values.

“Let’s return to our African traditions. Cultural leaders are key to transforming society, and while the process may be challenging, it’s essential,” the RDC urged.

Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) is implementing a project to support the re-entry of young mothers in the Adjumani district.

FAWE’s project officer, Nancy Asibazyo, noted their efforts to create awareness of the Revised Guidelines among stakeholders, including district officials, cultural and religious leaders, school administrators, parents, and guardians in refugee and host communities.

“We aim to achieve a 75% increase in awareness and knowledge about the re-entry guidelines and a 60% increase in the number of young mothers returning to school by the end of the project,” Asibazyo said.

The impact of COVID-19 on teenage pregnancies

A 2020 study by FAWE Uganda revealed that teenage pregnancies among refugee girls increased from 3.3% to 4.1% during the COVID-19 pandemic, a rate higher than the 1.8% among nationals.

Refugee girls were more susceptible to pregnancy because of risk factors exacerbated by the pandemic.