If You Choose Polygamy, Embrace Your Responsibilities

Addressing the Crisis in Parenting Norms

The issue of declining parenting norms in communities has become a pressing concern, with many pointing to the absence of fathers as a key contributing factor. In response, Makerere University has taken significant steps by training nearly 200 parenting experts to intervene and address these challenges.

Ms. Angella Nakafero, the Commissioner of Gender and Women Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development, highlighted the growing trend of parents leaving the responsibility of raising children to strangers rather than taking it seriously. She emphasized the importance of fathers being actively involved in family life.

“We need fathers back in the families. Positive parenting, shared roles and responsibility is very important. When the two of us work together, we can bring up better children,” she stated. Her words reflect a deep understanding of the role that both parents play in shaping the future of their children.

Ms. Nakafero also addressed the broader implications of weak family structures on the nation. “When the family is weak, Uganda will definitely be weak. So, the fathers, please let's carry that message. We are aware that in Uganda, the majority of families are under polygamy, but if you decide to be a polygamist, be prepared to deliver on your roles and responsibilities. It’s a choice you made,” she added.

This statement was made during a graduation ceremony for parenting experts organized by Makerere University. The event aimed to develop interventions that could help improve parenting practices within the community and regulate the behavior of children.

Dr. Godfrey Siu, a senior lecturer and course leader at the university, described the training as a timely intervention. He stressed the importance of continued support for such programs to address the new challenges facing children in the country.

“We have trained professionals who have the skills, able to design programmes to better mental health problems for children and for their families, able to design programmes that address gender based violence and violence against children,” Dr. Siu said. He also mentioned the program's focus on reducing harsh discipline as a method of correcting children's behavior.

The program, known as the Science of Designing Evidence-Based Parenting Interventions, was launched some time ago. Its primary goal is to support the government in improving investment in parenting and child wellbeing. This includes addressing the lack of skilled professionals who can create effective parenting programs.

Dr. Richard Idro, the Deputy Principal at the Makerere College of Health Sciences, called on the government to ensure that a parenting expert is present at every parish. This initiative aims to align children's morals with the expected values of the country.

Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti at the Uganda Supreme Muslim Council, urged the government to prioritize and address issues affecting children. He suggested integrating evidence-based parenting interventions to support the government’s efforts in protecting children.

Through these collective efforts, there is hope for a brighter future where children are raised in environments that foster positive development and strong family bonds. The collaboration between educational institutions, government bodies, and community leaders is essential in creating sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by families today.