Kasese leaders alarmed by rising suicides, teenage pregnancies

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reported that religious, civic and government leaders in Kasese District have raised concern over increasing suicide cases and teenage pregnancies among young people. The issues were discussed in Kasese Municipality during a review of the South Rwenzori Diocese’s 10-year Strategic Development Plan, where leaders linked the situation to emotional distress among youths and weakening family and community support systems.

According to the report, South Rwenzori Diocese Bishop Rt. Rev. Nason Baluku said Bukonzo East has seen a troubling rise in suicides, especially involving young people facing emotional and psychological difficulties. The diocese also pointed to teenage pregnancies as a growing concern, particularly in Busongora North. Social worker Moses Bajwaha said more than 1,200 girls in Kasese Municipality became pregnant in the past year, describing the number as a sign that child and adolescent protection structures are not working as they should.

In response, the diocese has set up skilling centres in several constituencies to provide vocational and life skills for young people. Bishop Baluku said the goal is to help youths become more self-reliant, make better-informed decisions and reduce their vulnerability to early pregnancy and other social risks.

Kasese Deputy Resident District Commissioner Lt. Maate Magwara said local authorities are working with the High Court in Kasese to pursue cases linked to teenage pregnancy and defilement. He called on residents to report incidents promptly, while stressing that cooperation among the church, government and communities will be important in addressing the district’s challenges.