Lamwo district leaders have urged parents to closely supervise their children during the school holidays, emphasizing the importance of keeping them safe from potential hazards.
Banabas Langoya, the Lamwo District Education Officer, made the appeal on Friday during an interview with tndNews.
His message stems from growing concerns about children’s safety and well-being when they are not under direct supervision by school personnel.
According to Langoya, parents should be vigilant and proactive in monitoring their children’s activities and interactions over the holiday season.
“As you are all aware, school children reported back home for their holidays last week. Much as the school holiday is a joyous time, it is also a period where parents, guardians, caretakers, and local leaders need to be extra cautious about the safety of children whether at home, in the neighborhood, or while traveling and visiting.”
Langoya added. “As the holidays begin, it’s important to remember that protecting children must be a top priority.”
Komakech William, the Lamwo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), echoed these sentiments, urging parents to openly discuss boundaries with their children.
“During the holidays, additional friends and family members may visit, and some may want to hug your child, tickle them, or have them sit on their lap.
“Empower your children to say NO to unwanted touches, photos, or favors—whether from adults or other children,” Komakech said. “If a child says ‘NO’ or ‘STOP,’ their boundaries must be respected.”
Komakech further stressed the need for parents to pay close attention to signs of abuse. “Many times, adults dismiss children’s feelings, especially when the accused is a trusted friend or family member.
“But the truth is, 90% of children are sexually abused by someone they or their families know well and 70% by a family member,” he said.
“Abuse can also happen at the hands of another child, so parents must be alert to children’s interactions with peers.”
“Your child depends on you to keep them safe. If something doesn’t feel right, ask questions, follow up, and take action. You owe that to your child,” he added.
During a weekly press briefing on Monday, Inspector of Police and Aswa East Regional Police PRO, Oloya Joe, advised parents to teach their children that keeping secrets, particularly with adults, is dangerous.
“Abusers often manipulate children by calling abuse ‘our little secret.’ Children must understand that secrets usually involve something wrong or dangerous,” said Oloya.
“Tell your child to report any request to keep a secret whether from an adult or another child immediately to you or another trusted adult.”
Grace Regina Akullu, a human rights advocate and 2026 MP aspirant for Lamwo County, cautioned against leaving children alone with adults.
“Eighty percent of sexual abuse occurs in one-on-one situations. Parents should create interruptible and observable environments. Drop by unannounced and talk to your children when you return home,” Akullu advised.
“Even one-on-one time between children should be monitored. At least 30% of abuse cases involve another child.”
She emphasized the need for open communication: “Create an environment where your child feels safe to talk to you, ask questions, and share concerns.”
Otema Richard, a resident of Abakadyak, noted that the stress of increased responsibilities and financial pressures during holidays can sometimes lead to physical abuse.
“When you feel overwhelmed, take a breather. Call a friend or seek support before reacting,” he advised.
Acen Beatrice, Headteacher of Abakadyak Primary School in Aceba sub-county, urged parents to calmly discuss age-appropriate safety concerns with their children.
“Let your child know it’s not about what someone looks like, but about what they ask the child to do. As a teacher and a mother, I wish all children and families a safe and happy holiday,” she said.
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