Gideon Tumwijukye | Tayari News
KABALE – The Uganda Girl Guides Association (UGGA) on Tuesday 24th March launched an Alcohol Harm Prevention Project in Kabale District, in a bid to curb high levels of alcohol misuse and keep children in school.
The three-year project, which will be implemented in the districts of Kabale, Rukiga, Kumi, and Pallisa in 2026-2028, was officially unveiled at a function held at Kabale District Rukiiko Hall. The launch attracted district security officials, technical staff, political leaders, and members of the local community, all of whom expressed concern over the rising cases of alcohol abuse and its impact on families and education.
Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Chief Commissioner, UGGA Canon Annet Turyatunga, said Kabale remains one of the districts grappling with high levels of alcohol consumption, which has greatly affected households and the well-being of children.
“We have realized that alcohol misuse is not only affecting individuals but also families. It is contributing to poverty, domestic violence, and forcing many children out of school. That is why we have come up with this project to intervene early,” Canon Turyatunga said.
She explained that the project will involve community outreaches, school-based engagements, and sensitization campaigns aimed at educating both parents and children about the dangers of alcohol abuse.
“This project is about shaping responsible and productive citizens. We are targeting both girls and boys because the problem affects all children. If we want a better future, we must invest in guiding the young generation now,” she added.
Canon Turyatunga further called upon local leaders, parents, and teachers to support the initiative, noting that its success will depend on collective responsibility.
Meanwhile, the Officer in Charge of the Child and Family Protection Unit in Kabale District, Inspector of Police Margret Kamiranga, welcomed the project, describing it as long overdue, given the increasing number of alcohol-related cases reported to police.
“Most of the cases we handle, especially domestic violence and child neglect, are directly linked to alcohol abuse. Families are breaking down, and children are the biggest victims in these situations,” IP Kamiranga said.
She emphasized that alcohol misuse has created unsafe home environments, leading to school dropout, early marriages, and, in some cases, child labour.
“As police, we are committed to working with partners like UGGA to sensitise communities. We need to continuously educate people about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and promote responsible behaviour,” she added.
The Kabale District Education Officer, Moses Tumwijukye Bwengye, also expressed optimism that the initiative will help address some of the challenges affecting the education sector in the district.
“Alcohol abuse has a direct impact on education. Children from homes where alcohol is misused often lack school fees, guidance, and basic support. This affects their performance and in many cases leads to dropout,” Bwengye said.
He noted that through school visits and awareness campaigns, learners will be empowered with knowledge to make informed decisions and avoid engaging in harmful behaviours.
“When learners understand the dangers of alcohol, they are more likely to stay focused on their studies. This project will also help instill discipline and improve the overall learning environment in our schools,” he added.
In his closing remarks, the Kabale District Deputy Resident Commissioner, Michael Muramira Kyakashari, cautioned project implementers to remain committed and ensure that the initiative delivers tangible results to the community.
“We have seen many good projects launched with a lot of excitement, but after some time, they lose momentum and disappear without making an impact. We do not want this to be one of them,” Kyakashari said.
He stressed that district security and leadership structures will closely monitor the implementation process to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
“As security, we shall follow up on this project to ensure it achieves its intended objectives. The community must benefit, and we expect to see a reduction in alcohol-related cases and improved welfare of our children,” he added.