Archbishop Kazimba rejects supply of contraceptives to children

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Samuel Stephen Kazimba Mugalu has said that the church will not allow girls below  18 years to access contraceptives.

Speaking at the 24th Graduation Ceremony at Uganda Christian University in Mukono on Friday, Kazimba said that whoever is behind the proposal should repent.

“The church will not allow this, it is against our norms, practices, and culture but also the law in Uganda forbids sex among people below the age of eighteen years. Their proposal leaves a question as to whether the age was lowered from the current 18 years to 15 years. Children should be taught to abstain.”  Dr. Kazimba emphasized.

Recently, Dr. Charles Olaro, the Director for Curative Services at the Ministry of Health said that they are considering a proposal to allow children as young as 15 years to access contraceptives, and information on sexual and reproductive health for those in need without stigma, discrimination, or judgment.

He also reasoned that reproductive health information was “not just a matter of choice but a matter of fundamental rights.

However, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa called the idea ‘devilish’ and intended to formalize the defilement of girls.

The Retired Archbishop Church of Uganda Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi asked the parents to remain supportive of their children and help them avoid temptations such as corruption and bribery tendencies as they seek jobs.

The UCU Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi asked graduates to always treasure the knowledge, and skills gained during their years of study and use them to compete for jobs in their respective careers.

“We are sending you out to the world to make a difference, please be our change agents. Do not be part of problems in society, but the light of the world, aspire and make the world a better place of living.” Dr. Mushengyezi noted.

Also, Bishop Alfred Olwa, the University Council Chairperson has appealed to graduates to stick to professional practices. According to him, a professional puts services above self and is dedicated to work beyond duty.

986 students graduated in various disciplines. 527 were female and 459 were male.

A total of 33 students received first-class degrees while five graduated with PhDs.

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URN