Nakapiripirit, Uganda — Girl child education in Karamoja remains a major challenge among the Karimojong pastoral communities, who traditionally place greater value on livestock than formal education.
In the past, many parents in Karamoja believed that educating a girl child was a waste of time, arguing that the girl would eventually grow up, get married, and bring in livestock as bride price.
Despite efforts by several stakeholders to encourage Karamoja parents to enroll their children in school, especially girls, the level of commitment to education remains low in some areas.
However, Ms. Modesta Ajilong, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Nakapiripirit, has made notable progress in changing attitudes through intensive community mobilization, including door-to-door campaigns aimed at ensuring that both girls and boys stay in school.
She has also advised headteachers of all Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools not to charge any fees, emphasizing that government covers education costs for every child.
Through her continuous “back-to-school” campaigns, RDC Ajilong has contributed to reducing cases of forced and early marriages among girls in the district.
Two weeks ago, six girls reportedly escaped and sought refuge at the RDC’s office after their parents attempted to force them into marriage. In response, Ms. Ajilong accompanied the girls back home and engaged their parents using a calm and persuasive approach, cautioning them against marrying off their daughters at a young age.
She sensitized the parents on the importance of educating the girl child and the dangers associated with early marriage. The intervention reportedly touched the families, who later apologized and pledged to protect and support their daughters’ education.
Who is Ms. Ajilong?
Born in Bukedea District, Ms. Ajilong is a graduate in accounting and a politician who previously served as the District Vice Chairperson of Bukedea. She was later appointed by the President to serve as RDC, beginning as Deputy RDC of Nakapiripirit. She also served as the acting RDC of Nabilatuk District after its creation from Nakapiripirit.
While in Nabilatuk, she was involved in mobilizing the recovery of illegal firearms from Karimojong warriors and spearheaded efforts to curb environmental degradation before being transferred to Zombo District.
In Zombo, she continued her administrative duties before being posted to Bukwo District, where she actively campaigned against female genital mutilation (FGM). She was later transferred back to Nakapiripirit, where she currently serves.
She is the only female Resident District Commissioner currently serving in the Karamoja region and is widely recognized for her strong advocacy for girl child education.
Her mobilization skills are also credited with contributing to strong electoral support for President Museveni in Nakapiripirit District.
Observers note that her leadership potential is significant and suggest that her capabilities may be underutilized in her current role.
The writer is a senior veteran journalist.
