RUBIRIZI, Uganda – Religious and education leaders in Rubirizi District have raised concern over rising cases of domestic violence, poverty, and family instability, calling on parents to embrace responsible parenting and strengthen family values.
Rev. Faaza Fabias Bainakanama, the parish priest of Nyakasura Parish in Kitagwenda District, made the appeal while presiding over a thanksgiving Mass at St. Joseph’s High School Rubirizi. The event marked the end of Term One and the school’s feast day celebrations.
In a firm message directed especially to men, Rev. Faaza condemned the mistreatment of wives, describing domestic violence as a major contributor to poverty and poor academic performance among children.
“Parents must stop giving birth to children they cannot care for. Family conflict, violence, and neglect are destroying homes and forcing children out of school,” he said.
He revealed that religious leaders are increasingly handling cases of domestic abuse, including instances where men batter their wives, but also noted with concern that some women are now abusing their husbands.
“This is shameful and harmful to families. We must end violence in homes and promote love, respect, and responsibility,” he added.
Rev. Faaza blamed alcohol abuse, drug use, infidelity, laziness, and the spread of HIV as key drivers of family breakdown in the region. He urged couples to pray together, plan their families responsibly, and raise children in a supportive and caring environment.
The call was echoed by Dr. Nahamya Wilfred, Deputy Executive Director of the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board and one of the founders of St. Joseph’s High School Rubirizi. He encouraged parents, teachers, and students to embrace vocational skills training as a pathway to self-reliance.
Dr. Nahamya highlighted that many children in the district drop out of school due to long distances and lack of access to quality education, noting that the establishment of St. Joseph’s High School was aimed at addressing these challenges.
“Many children were walking long distances or failing to find a place to study. Bringing a quality school closer to the community will improve performance and reduce dropout rates,” he said.
Meanwhile, the school’s headteacher, Byagaba Benedicto, urged parents to remain vigilant during the holiday period, particularly in protecting the girl child from teenage pregnancy and HIV infection.
He emphasized the importance of educating girls, describing it as a long-term investment in national development.
“When you educate a girl child, you educate the nation,” he said.
Byagaba also called on parents to take full responsibility for their children’s education by providing basic needs, instilling discipline, and nurturing moral and spiritual values.
Leaders at the event unanimously stressed that addressing domestic violence, promoting responsible parenting, and investing in education are critical steps toward building stronger families and a more stable community in Rubirizi.
