By Priscah Atuhaire,
KAMPALA
As the holiday season approaches, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has warned against the potential risks faced by children during this period.
Faizo Muzeyi, Head of Media and Communication at UPC said in a media engagement on Wednesday highlighted social behavioral change as the major challenge faced by the holiday makers in Uganda. According to him, children are exposed drug abuse which he says lead to addiction, financial strain both to the children and parents.
“Our society is also facing early child pregnancies, marriages and child labour. Holiday makers should be counselled on how to keep out of danger which danger has a potential of spreading of HIV/AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases to both the girl and boy child,” said Muzeyi.
To mitigate these risks, UPC urged parents to take a keen interest in monitoring and nurturing their children during the holidays. The party urged children remain focused, integrate into family life, and engage in productive activities like gardening, poultry, livestock keeping, and craft making.
By doing so, UPC believes that holiday makers can develop essential skills, become responsible members of society.
Furthermore, parents and guardians have also been urged to prioritize their children’s well-being and safety during the holidays by guiding their children during this critical period to ensure they graduate as responsible citizens.