Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, early and forced marriage and teenage pregnancy have become very rampant. Here in Busoga, there is a cultural belief that a boy-child is more important than the girl-child. Girls are referred to as “Sukal” meaning that they can be married off in exchange for sugar. Some parents have married off their daughters in exchange for some small items such s sugar, food items and some money. This is very dangerous to the young girls who are not yet mature to handle family life.
Another cause is that some girls have got tired of being in one class for three years and yet they are growing. Because of this, some have started loving boys and men thinking that these will give them the money to take care of themselves. Boys and men tell them that they will buy them phones, clothes, eatables among others.
The relationship starts jokingly with small visits and saying goodbye with a hand shake. After it grows, visiting late hours, deep kissing, hugging among others. The relationship will continue growing and will end in having sex resulting into teenage pregnancy.
My life changed a lot because of pregnancy. I go pregnant and gave birth in the first lockdown. My parents chased me from home and I started staying with the father of the baby. When school started again, it was so difficult being a mother and a student. I talked to one of my teachers who advised me to ask my parents to forgive me so that I can go home again.
My mother was willing but my father refused saying the boy should pay first. I have been staying with this boy (the father of the baby) during school and now this lockdown. But things are very hard. He mistreats me very much. I again called the teachers and she advised me to report to the police.
Now I am staying with my Aunt together with the baby. I am not sure if my father will ever pay my fees again. I advise my fellow girls to abstain from sex and not to engage in any sexual relationship or accept any gifts from them because they will be forced to have sex in order to pay back.
Parents should be strict with their children but also help them when they have made mistakes so that they do not suffer so much.
Lastly, my fellow girls should study and stay in school so that parents will continue supporting them.