By Tricia Bigirwa
Kagadi is facing a silent but growing family crisis—one where fathers are increasingly present in name, but absent in responsibility.
This concern dominated a male parents’ retreat held at Stella Maris Nursery and Primary School in Kigangaizi Cell, Kagadi Town Council, Kagadi district.
The symposium, held under the theme “The Father We Need in the Evolving Roles of Our Time,” brought together leaders and parents to confront shifting family dynamics.
Mathias Kyaligonza, Director of Stella Maris Nursery and Primary School, said the symposium was organized after realizing many fathers had withdrawn from parenting responsibilities, leaving women to carry the burden.
He urged men to reject gender bias and actively participate in raising their children.
Several male participants pointed to rising family conflicts, blaming changing social dynamics, including women’s empowerment, for disrupting traditional roles.
Peter Mugisa, Male District Councilor for Mabaale Town Council, linked the strain to increasing living costs and financial pressure on men.
Abiola Junior argued that men are overwhelmed by family responsibilities, claiming women contribute less to household needs.
John Byabagambi criticized what he described as unfair systems, alleging that authorities such as police and gender officers tend to side with women in family disputes.
Mwebaze James urged men to establish firm family foundations, warning that weak structures create room for conflict and imbalance.
However, women leaders pushed back, attributing the widening gap between fathers and families to men’s neglect and what they termed the “busy syndrome.”
Mary Natukunda, Kagadi District Gender Officer, revealed that her office handles between two and ten cases of gender-based violence daily, many linked to fathers failing in their roles.
She defended women’s empowerment programs, saying they have helped sustain families where men are absent.
Katweta Daphine, Vice LC3 Chairperson for Migamba Sub-County, said male dominance and rigid attitudes continue to strain family relationships.
