The Ministry of Health is proposing to implement birth control measures for underage girls who drop out of school in an effort to reduce the population growth rate in Uganda. Director Charles Olalo is leading this initiative, partnering with the United Nations Fund for Population Activities to curb early pregnancies in the country.
The development comes months after Uganda in May signed a compact with the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA), renamed United Nations Population Fund, to promote birth control among young people.
However, the church strongly opposes the government’s plan, viewing them as contrary to God’s will. They believe these measures are morally wrong and sinful. Additionally, Uganda’s constitution prohibits girls under 18 from participating in family planning and birth control.
Religious leaders, led by the Anglican Bishop James Bukomeko of Mityana Diocese, vehemently denounced the proposed program, citing cultural norms and traditions. He urged Ugandans and parliamentarians to reject it. They argue that foreign influence is threatening Uganda’s values, similar to the way the Homosexual Bill was introduced from Europe.
The Catholic Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Silverous Jumba prayed for divine intervention to protect the nation from what he sees as an attempt to introduce harmful acts. He stresses that sexual activity should only be for procreation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacy of procreation.
The Kibuli Muslim faction spokesperson Dr. Mohammed Kiggundu Musoke warns of detrimental effects on the young generation if underage individuals are coerced into using contraceptives.
He suggests counseling and guidance as more appropriate methods to support the health and well-being of young individuals, rather than introducing them to family planning at an early age, which he fears may encourage prostitution.
