By Peterson Otwakai Okwagadude
I commend the State Minister for Fisheries, who also serves as the Woman MP for Serere, Hon. Hellen Adoa, for her tireless efforts in fighting against drug abuse, early marriages, and domestic violence. Her dedication to creating a safer and more equitable society is truly admirable. I urge the government to take heed of the Minister’s efforts and intensify its own initiatives to address these pressing issues.
Specifically, I applaud her Transformative Campaign, which aims to combat drug abuse, gang violence, and early marriages in Serere District. This initiative includes a district-wide marathon and youth empowerment programs, providing entrepreneurial skills and income generation opportunities for the youth. I also commend her efforts in Empowering Youth, where she has allocated over UGX 50 million to establish community-based empowerment projects.
Considering alternative empowerment initiatives could provide more sustainable outcomes. Recreation activities, such as organizing sports, games, or cultural events, could promote social cohesion and community engagement. Establishing Sacco groups, or savings and credit cooperatives, could provide financial empowerment and economic opportunities. Initiating projects for producing feed for birds, fish, and animals could generate income and promote food security. Supporting goat rearing, poultry, and piggery initiatives could provide a sustainable source of income and protein for the community.
Furthermore, I support her efforts in combating early marriages and domestic violence, issues that disproportionately affect young girls and women in the district. I urge the government to take concrete steps to address these issues, including providing support for victims of domestic violence and promoting education among young girls. The statistics from Serere District are alarming, with over 116,000 NRM members registered, but a disproportionate number of women and youth making up the majority. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to support men and promote gender equality. I implore the government to wake up to the reality of domestic violence, drug abuse, and early marriages, and take concrete steps to address these issues. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to create a better, safer, and more just society.
The author is a resident of Aukot
