Legislators Call for Policies to Support Teenage Mothers

Kampala, Uganda – The government of Uganda has announced plans to invest in programs that encourage men to adopt positive attitudes towards women.

This initiative aims to combat negative masculinities that endanger women’s wellbeing in Uganda, with the program slated to run for five years, from 2026 to 2030.

Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, revealed the plan while presenting a statement before Parliament on Thursday, in preparation for the International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8, 2025, in Kyankwanzi District.

However, the government has backtracked on its promise to provide free sanitary pads to school-going girls, citing tough economic conditions as the reason for not fulfilling this commitment, which was initially made by President Museveni in 2015.

Minister Amongi acknowledged concerns raised by Brenda Nabukenya, a representative from Luwero, regarding the government’s failure to provide sanitary towels to women in prisons.

“Women in prisons lack access to sanitary pads. I’ve met several who can’t get them until they reach out to their families. The Ministry must ensure these women receive essential items, including sanitary towels, as they have no control over their circumstances.” Said Brenda Nabukenya

Amongi stated that the proposal for free sanitary pads was examined but deemed not feasible due to economic constraints.

“Government examined the proposal for free sanitary pads, but it’s not feasible due to economic constraints. I’ll discuss tax-related issues with the Cabinet.” Said Minister Among.

Flavia Kabahenda, a representative from Kyegegwa, emphasized the need for policies supporting teenage mothers in returning to school.

She highlighted the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies and child marriages, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ll make progress with the right action and support. The number of child-parents, even post-COVID-19, is alarming. We need legislation to support child parents’ re-entry into school, and this applies to both girls and boys who become parents.” Said Kabahenda.

Kabahenda advocated for legislation adopting a child rights approach to reintegration assistance, facilitating the re-entry of child parents into school.