Arua child mothers say lack of parental guidance left them vulnerable

What the report says

Child mothers in Arua City, in northwestern Uganda, are speaking out about how limited communication at home about growing up, relationships and sexual and reproductive health can leave adolescents exposed to pregnancy, abuse and misinformation. The Independent Uganda reported on October 13, 2026, that the discussion came during a three-day community dialogue organized by SIHA Network in Pajulu, Dadamu and Mvara.

Among those featured was a 16-year-old identified as Ayikoru Edith, who said she became pregnant in 2023 while preparing for her Primary Leaving Examinations. She said she had been living with an aunt and relied mainly on school lessons, friends and occasional outside information because she did not receive enough guidance from adults. Other participants described similar experiences, including one young mother who said she was raped by a group of youths while running an errand for her mother and later faced hostility at home after the pregnancy was discovered.

The article says the testimonies have renewed calls for parents and guardians to take a more active role in guiding children through adolescence. SIHA Network said its Safe Choices!! Strong Voices!! project is working with child mothers and pregnant teenagers in Arua City and Yumbe District to improve knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and rights and help girls make informed decisions. Religious and government figures also urged more open family conversations, warning that many young people turn to friends or social media when they cannot find answers at home.