Minister Kaboyo officiates at St. Mary’s Day Celebrations in Namutumba

By: JOTHAM ALINAITWE 

NAMUTUMBA

The State Minister for Luwero-Rwenzori, Hon. Alice Kaboyo, officiated the St. Mary’s Day celebrations held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Namutumba Town Council in Namutumba District. The event took place at the construction site of St. Mary’s House, commemorating International St. Mary’s Day, a significant occasion observed by the Mothers’ Union of Central Busoga Diocese.

Hon. Alice Kaboyo, State Minister for Luwero Triangle addressing the congregation during St. Mary’s celebrations in Namutumba District

The celebration, which is dedicated to married women in the church worldwide, was marked by prayers, fundraising efforts, and a strong message of hope under the theme from Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Hon. Kaboyo emphasized the crucial role mothers play in shaping society, stating, “Mothers are the first teachers, the first role models, and the foundation of a strong society. On this Mothers’ Union Day, let us reflect on the role we play in guiding the next generation.” She highlighted concerns about the negative impact of social media on youth, urging parents to steer their children toward creativity, hard work, and self-reliance. “Social media is a powerful tool, but only if used wisely. Let us encourage our children to create meaningful content that adds value and fosters career growth rather than indulging in negativity,” she urged.

The Minister also addressed pressing issues such as early marriages and teenage pregnancies, which remain major challenges in Busoga. She called on mothers to protect their daughters from societal pressures and reiterated the importance of education for all girls, regardless of their circumstances.

The State Minister for Luwero-Rwenzori , Hon. Alice Kaboyo addresses the people Namutumba District during the the St. Mary’s Day celebrations while church leaders look on

A girl’s future is not a transaction; it is a journey of growth, education, and endless possibilities. Even when a young girl becomes a mother, she still has a right to education and a better future, Kaboyo stressed. She further noted the moral decay among youth and called for a return to religious values and prayer. Citing Proverbs 22:6, she urged parents to instill discipline, respect, and responsibility in their children.

Hon. Kaboyo urged mothers and leaders to continue instilling religious values in children, reinforcing the importance of respect for elders and authorities. She also acknowledged the NRM government’s commitment to supporting all religions and ensuring freedom of worship. “When we, as mothers, change our mindsets within our homes, the whole society transforms for the better. Let us lead by example, raise children with strong values, and build a future that is bright, responsible, and full of hope,” she concluded.

The Government, under the leadership of President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM, has been instrumental in ensuring peace, security, and religious freedom for all Ugandans. Through initiatives such as the Parish Development Model, direct financial support has been extended to communities, helping families lift themselves out of poverty. As we embrace faith, hard work, and education, let us also take advantage of these government programs to build a better future for all Ugandans. May we continue to pray for our families, our nation, and the continued prosperity of our people.

Minister Alice Kaboyo made a pledge during the event, promising to provide all the iron sheets needed for roofing the St. Mary’s House structure. She called upon all well-wishers to join hands in supporting the project until its completion. Kaboyo praised the efforts of the Mothers’ Union in establishing the St. Mary’s House project, which seeks to provide skills training for young mothers. She encouraged the community to support initiatives that equip young women with practical skills to ensure financial independence.

The St. Mary’s House project, a key initiative of the Mothers’ Union, aims to address the high rates of teenage pregnancy and school dropouts by providing skills training for young mothers. Hon. Mariam Naigaga, the host Member of Parliament, emphasized the project’s impact: “Once this skilling facility is complete, we will ensure all young mothers are nurtured to become better women of tomorrow. No one will be left behind.” The center will offer vocational training such as tailoring to help young mothers.

Hon. Persis Namuganza, State Minister of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, served as the guest preacher and contributed 5 million Ugandan shillings toward the construction of the skilling center. Rose Musana Samanya, President of the Mothers’ Union, spoke on the link between early marriages and gender-based violence, emphasizing that poverty remains a driving force behind these challenges. “As the Mothers’ Union, we developed this skilling initiative strategy to empower the girl child,” she stated, thanking President Yoweri Museveni for his continued support of religious initiatives.

The event, which was graced by political leaders, religious leaders, Mothers’ Union leaders, and members, began with prayers and thanksgiving led by Bishop Patrick Wakula. The warm reception and strong attendance from the Archdeaconry underscored the community’s commitment to faith, family, and development.

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