The State Minister for Kampala and Member of Parliament for Nakaseke Central, Joseph Kabuye Kyofatogabye, has called on religious leaders in cattle-keeping communities to work with local authorities in combating child marriage, saying the practice continues to deprive young girls of their future.
Kyofatogabye made the remarks during the installation ceremony of the new Parish Priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Bugonga, Rev. Fr. Eliya Kayonga, in Wakyato Sub-county, Nakaseke District, under the Catholic Diocese of Kasana-Luweero.
The minister urged religious leaders to strengthen community sensitisation on the importance of educating girls rather than marrying them off at a young age in exchange for bride price, especially cattle.
“A girl child deserves to study from Primary One up to university. I feel sorry for parents who marry off girls aged 13, 14, or 15 just to receive cattle. We shall ensure such parents face the law,” Kyofatogabye said.
He encouraged parents to enrol their children in church-founded schools and institutions, where they can access quality education and receive moral guidance from priests, sisters, and other religious leaders.
Kyofatogabye also challenged young people to take advantage of available employment opportunities instead of depending on politicians for financial support.
He revealed that a coffee factory under construction in Butalangu is expected to create more than 3,000 jobs and urged young people to prepare themselves for employment opportunities.
“The factory in Butalangu will require over 3,000 workers. Instead of calling leaders asking for money, take advantage of such opportunities and engage in productive work,” he said.
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kasana-Luweero, Rt. Rev. Lawrence Mukasa, encouraged young people to actively participate in church ministry and remain committed to serving God and their communities.
Meanwhile, the newly installed Parish Priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Bugonga, Rev. Fr. Eliya Kayonga, thanked the diocesan leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility.
Kayonga pledged to serve faithfully and appreciated the bishop for giving young priests opportunities to lead newly established church institutions.
“The diocese had initially considered appointing only senior priests to head new institutions, but later resolved to also entrust young priests with these responsibilities. I am grateful for the confidence placed in us, and I pledge to serve with dedication,” Kayonga said.
