Enock Ndyamuhakyi | Tayari News
Leaders in the Kigezi Sub-region have been urged to prioritize the protection, inclusion, and empowerment of the boy child in national development programs.
Speaking to our reporter in Kabale Municipality, residents expressed concern that while significant progress has been made in advancing girl child empowerment programs, the boy child is increasingly being left behind, exposing many young boys to crime, homelessness, gambling, drug abuse, and school dropout.
According to statistics from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), males make up the majority of Uganda’s prison population, with many young men reportedly entering the criminal justice system at an early age due to lack of guidance and social support.
Data from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development also indicates that boys account for the largest proportion of street children in urban centers, including Kampala, where many are exposed to child labor and harsh street conditions.
Doreen Tindimwebwa, a resident of Kekubo Cell in Kabale Municipality, said society must strike a balance in supporting both boys and girls.
“Girl child empowerment is important, but we should not forget the boy child. Both children deserve equal opportunities, guidance, and protection because neglecting boys today will create bigger social problems tomorrow,” Tindimwebwa said.
She warned that failure to address the growing challenges affecting boys could contribute to moral decline and increased social instability within communities.
Atusasire Edmund, a former aspirant for the Rukiga District LC5 chairperson seat, criticized what he described as an imbalance in government and donor programming.
“For years, most interventions have focused on the girl child, which is good, but the boy child also needs mentorship, life skills, and behavioral guidance. If we continue neglecting boys, society will face serious consequences in the future,” Atusasire said.
He called on government and development partners to design inclusive programs that cater to the needs of all children regardless of gender.
Meanwhile, Ven. Can. Oscar Mwesigye, Archdeacon of Bubare Archdeaconry in Rubanda District, noted that declining participation of boys in school and other productive activities is becoming increasingly worrying.
“Many boys are dropping out of school and engaging in unproductive activities. If urgent interventions are not made, the country risks losing a generation of responsible men and future leaders,” Mwesigye said.
He urged parents, schools, religious institutions, and government agencies to work together to restore discipline, purpose, and opportunities for boys.
Kabale District Education Officer Moses Tumwijukye Bwengye also raised concern over the declining enrollment and attendance of boys in schools across the district.
“Schools are registering fewer boys compared to previous years. This trend is dangerous because it threatens the country’s future workforce and leadership,” Bwengye said.
He appealed to stakeholders to urgently implement practical measures to keep boys in school and protect them from harmful influences such as gambling, drug abuse, and criminal activities.