Senior Presidential Advisor for Political Affairs, Moses Byaruhanga, has called on parents to encourage their children to embrace government poverty reduction programs as a means of earning a stable income, rather than engaging in criminal activities such as “eggaali” gangs.
Byaruhanga delivered the message on Saturday through State House Assistant Principal Private Secretary, Josephine Kasaato, during the launch of the Greater House Mukono Foundation (GHMF) — a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at promoting family values and fostering community development in Mukono.
The GHMF, a multi-denominational and apolitical platform led by Greater Mukono born-again pastor Bp. Samuel Lwandasa, seeks to revive neglected cultural practices and unify households in the region, some of which date back to the 1950s. Its core mission is to instill strong moral values, restore cultural heritage, and reduce social vices.
Kasaato lauded the GHMF as a “long-term national development dream,” emphasizing that participation contributes to building a society free from domestic violence, promiscuity, and other societal evils.
She cited biblical teachings, noting that Jesus came to give life in abundance, which she said is only possible when parents actively nurture upright children.
Mukono Resident District Commissioner, Hajat Fatuma Ndisaba, expressed concern over low voter support for development initiatives in the region, observing that President Museveni’s recent 23% victory in Mukono reflected voters being misled by politicians who ask for votes without educating citizens on leaders’ responsibilities.
Addressing the forum, Mukono Community Liaison Officer, ASSP Shafique Kasujja, criticized parents who confront police for arresting law-breaking children, pointing out that neglect in upbringing contributes to youth involvement in criminal gangs. He warned that uneducated children are often recruited into “eggaali” networks.
Bp. Samuel Lwandasa explained that GHMF intends to educate society that many criminal behaviors spilling over into Mukono from Kampala are imported, not native to the district.
“A lot of wrong, tarnishing messages have been spread about Mukono, but as a foundation, we believe we have the capacity to change this view,” he said.
The forum also featured legal education on succession matters by Tororo High Court Circuit Judge, Henry Kaweesa, who advised against hastily distributing a deceased person’s property immediately after reading the will, as it could compromise opportunities for balanced appeals.
The GHMF launch represents a collaborative effort by local leaders, religious groups, and government officials to promote moral upbringing, cultural revival, and community-centered development in Mukono.
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