Faith Leaders and Community Members Gather in Kibuku District to Address Child Marriage

On 29 December 2025, a faith leader engagement took place in Kamolokini Village, Nabuli Parish, Kagumu Sub-County, Kibuku District, Eastern Uganda, bringing together 200 participants, including 154 adults and 46 children. The engagement was held during a Thanksgiving ceremony and was facilitated by Pastor Ben Arikod, creating space for faith-based dialogue on ending child marriage within the community.

The gathering included a wide range of faith, education, and community stakeholders, among them a parish priest, two major seminarians, four teachers, a church choir of 20 members, and seven local community leaders. Through sermons, reflections, and guided discussions, participants examined the harmful impacts of child marriage on children’s rights, education, health, and overall wellbeing.

Discussions also highlighted the role of faith leaders and institutions in shaping community norms and supporting families to protect children. Emphasis was placed on moral responsibility, community leadership, and the importance of using trusted spaces of worship to promote care, dignity, and protection for all children.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, participating leaders collectively pledged to speak out against child marriage and to advocate for children’s rights within their respective roles and spheres of influence. The engagement demonstrated how faith gatherings can serve not only as moments of reflection and gratitude, but also as platforms for community action, strengthening local commitment to building a child marriage free future in Uganda.