PALLISA: In Kibale, Residents Say the Church Must Now Lead the Fight to Save Youth

What the report says

Residents in Kibale Town Council, Pallisa District, turned a church fundraising event for St. Jude Catholic Church Opogona into a wider discussion about youth drug use, school dropout, and family breakdown. The gathering at Opogono Primary School brought together parents, local leaders, and members of parliament, with the immediate goal of raising UGX 30 million for church bricks but the larger concern centered on young people spending time in trading centres where marijuana, opium, and waragi were said to be used openly.

Speakers described rising insecurity and social pressure on families. Local leaders said some trading-centre areas had become unsafe for ordinary residents, while others pointed to growing disrespect for parents and increasing dropout levels. One district leader cited declining pupil numbers in upper primary classes as evidence that many children had disappeared from school, and parents said some sons were demanding food at night and avoiding household responsibilities.

Kibale County MP Okwii Constantine promised tougher action against drug peddlers, saying arrests and prison could help restore discipline, though he acknowledged enforcement alone would not solve the problem. Pallisa District Woman MP Achola Catherine urged young people to form groups and pursue income-generating work, especially brick-making, and said leaders should support such efforts. She also donated money and goods to the church and parish groups.

According to the report, the fundraising became a symbol of a broader appeal for the church to help guide youth back toward education, work, and community life. The event also drew political figures and aspirants, who stressed development and unity over blame.