African Water Solutions is using Music, Dance, and Drama to address teenage pregnancy in Kamuli District, engaging pupils, parents, and the community while also improving menstrual health facilities for girls.
Kamuli, Uganda: African Water Solutions (AWS) has turned to Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) as an innovative tool in the fight against teenage pregnancy, using the arts to engage both learners and parents on the urgent need to keep girls in school.
The initiative was showcased at Butende Primary School in Kitayunjwa Sub-county, Kamuli District, where AWS organised an MDD event to address the high rate of school dropouts linked to early pregnancies.
Hillary Wafula, the AWS Project Manager in Kamuli, explained that the intervention was inspired by a January 2025 visit to the school, when they found that many girls had not returned due to teenage pregnancies.
“We decided to involve children in presenting issues on how teenage pregnancies can be reduced. When children raise these matters to their parents through music, dance, and drama, the message is more impactful,” Wafula said.
He stressed that child neglect was among the leading causes of teenage pregnancy and early marriage in the Busoga region, urging parents to provide basic necessities, maintain close supervision, and openly discuss sexual and reproductive health with their children.
Parents Urged to Prioritise Education and Wellbeing
Mitala Moses, the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Kamuli District, who presided over the event, called on parents to ensure their children remain in school and are adequately fed. “No child can study on an empty stomach and understand what is being taught. It is your responsibility to protect and keep your children in school,” he said.
Kyalo Yowabu, the headteacher of Butende Primary School, cited several challenges hindering education, including lack of proper fencing, inadequate teacher accommodation, and absence of a midday meal. He urged parents and stakeholders to help address these gaps.
During the activity, pupils showcased songs, dances, poems, and plays illustrating the impact of parental behaviour on children and how neglect can lead to teenage pregnancies.
In addition to the MDD initiative, AWS has constructed a Safe Room at the school to support adolescent girls during their menstrual periods, enabling them to continue attending classes without interruption.
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