KAPCHORWA– Church leaders in the Sebei Sub-region have voiced strong concerns over the increasing neglect of children’s education by parents and the disturbing trend of settling cases of child abuse privately instead of seeking justice.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony held at All Saints Church in Kapchorwa, the Bishop of Sebei Diocese, Rt. Rev. Paul Kiptoo Masaba, condemned parents who hinder their children’s education even when sponsors are available and those who choose to negotiate with perpetrators of violence against children, including sexual offenders.
“Sometimes we feel disappointed with our people. Children have sponsors like Compassion International, yet some parents stop them from going to school,” Bishop Masaba lamented. “I feel a lot of pain when parents negotiate with rapists, defilers—people who have abused children. Sometimes a girl is underage, pregnant due to defilement, and instead of seeking justice, the parents sit to negotiate for money. Who suffers? The innocent child.”
The event celebrated the graduation of over 300 youths who have completed education and skills training programs sponsored by Compassion International in collaboration with five local churches in the region.
Bishop Martin Chelengati of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God applauded Compassion International’s continued support for vulnerable children and urged for an expansion of these efforts into hard-to-reach areas of Sebei and neighboring Karamoja. He also called on church leaders to speak out more boldly against child abuse.
“Sometimes we keep quiet when a child is abused,” Bishop Chelengati said. “Let us join hands and fight these abusers. We, as church leaders, must use our pulpits to speak out. The community must rise, shout, and shame the perpetrators.”
Rev. Julius Aliwa, Diocesan Secretary and Chairperson of the Umbrella Leaders (a body uniting church leadership in the partnership), reiterated the churches’ commitment to protecting children. He highlighted their ongoing work in combating domestic violence, offering educational and spiritual guidance, and addressing teenage pregnancies.
Rev. Aliwa also raised concerns about elements within the justice system who frustrate efforts to protect children. “When cases of sexual abuse are taken to court, some magistrates frustrate the efforts for justice. Sometimes this is due to connivance with the perpetrators. Yet, despite these hurdles, we continue transforming lives.”
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nkugwa Kizito pledged full government support in this cause. “I am ready to work with you, in thick and thin, to stop this madness. Let us ensure our children grow up safe and educated. Parents, have compassion for your children. To the bishops and Compassion International, thank you for your commitment.”
Dr. Nicolas Kalyebara, Senior Manager of Partnerships at Compassion International, said the graduates have been supported for 17 years from primary education through to university or vocational training. “Those who do not proceed to university receive skills training and toolkits to help them start work. Today, over 300 youth are graduating, and we’re proud to partner with churches to uplift this community.”
The five churches in partnership with Compassion International in Sebei are the Church of Uganda, Deliverance Church, Evangelical Bodies of Christ, Perfection Church and Ministry, and the Pentecostal Assemblies of God.
Dr. Kalyebara noted that the support doesn’t end at graduation. “We’ve established an alumni association to help monitor the progress of graduates. Through this, our partner churches will continue to offer mentorship and guidance.”
About Compassion International
Compassion International is a child rights organization committed to freeing children from poverty through sponsorships and donations. The organization partners with local churches to protect, nurture, and empower vulnerable children—helping them to learn, grow, and realize their full potential.
