Positive Parenting

  A tribute to a mother, whose life was an open book Mrs. Lilian Mpiriirwe, fondly known as Mwinika, the mother of my friend Comfort has rested. It is a sad and dark morning. Two days ago, her daughter Comfort, whom she called Comfa (the Bakiga have a way for shortening every name) turned 42. Her birthday fell on the day her employer, Uganda Christian University was honouring distinguished staff for excellent service. Comfort was among those recognised for her outstanding contribution to teaching, learning and internship supervision. It was a good day. Their elder brother, Rev. Dr. Jasper Tumuhimbise graduated with a PhD in Education Management this same month.   This morning, her brothers Grant and Alex add another year. Yet the same morning, this family icon transitions to glory. What a month. We have all lost loved ones, and sadly, there never comes a time when we can say we are now used to the ugly grip of death. Each time it hits, it comes with a fresh form of pain an...

  By Dickson Tumuramye In today's rapidly evolving world, we find ourselves amid a generation often referred to as Gen Z and Alpha. With the generation most frequently being defined as people born from 1997 to 2012, these young individuals are growing up in an era dominated by technology, where information flows abundantly and relationships are often forged through screens rather than face-to-face interactions. While they exude independence and a desire for autonomy, there exists a crucial gap in their emotional intelligence and understanding of responsibilities. Challenges Gen Z is characterized by a strong sense of entitlement and empowerment, often driven by their rights but less attuned to their corresponding responsibilities. Raised in an environment saturated with digital stimuli, they grapple with information overload, yet may lack the discernment needed to make sound decisions. Their preference for gadgets over meaningful relationships can further isolate them from th...

  By Dickson Tumuramye As the final exams for all our candidates have drawn to a close, households across the nation prepare to welcome back their diligent scholars. The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has been witness to the hard work and dedication of these young minds, marking the end of their journey at the PLE, Ordinary & Advanced Levels (O-level & A-level). It is a moment of mixed emotions — joyous celebrations for some and perhaps a touch of anxiety for others awaiting their results. For every student, the culmination of exams signifies not just the end of a rigorous academic period, but also a personal milestone in their educational pursuit. Whether the exams were perceived as challenging or manageable, each student has completed a chapter that now awaits grading and results next year. As parents, guardians, and educators, it is crucial to acknowledge and congratulate them for their efforts thus far, regardless of the eventual outcomes. Until UNEB rele...

  By Dickson Tumuramye In the intricate tapestry of family life, perhaps nothing is as pivotal or enduring as the bond between parents and their children. This fundamental relationship, shaped from the very genesis of parenthood, holds the power to profoundly influence a child’s development, emotional security, and future relationships. Yet, amidst the demands of modern life, the significance of actively fostering this bond can sometimes be overlooked or underestimated. The journey of parenthood begins long before a child's first cry. It starts with the conscious decision to not only bring a child into the world but also to nurture and cultivate a deep connection with them. This connection, often termed as bonding, is not a mere consequence of biological ties but a deliberate, ongoing process that demands time, effort, and emotional investment. For fathers, especially, the opportunity to bond begins well before birth. Engaging with their unborn child through talking, singing,...

  My dearest love, Today marks 14 years since we embarked on this incredible journey together. It feels like just yesterday we set out with bright eyes and hopeful hearts, unaware of the twists and turns that awaited us. Reflecting on these years, I am filled with awe at how far we've come, how much we've grown, and how deeply we've loved. In the beginning, it seemed so easy, almost like a leisurely stroll through a beautiful garden. Yet, we quickly learned that marriage, like life itself, is filled with complexities. We've faced challenges that tested our courage and resolve. There were moments when a simple conversation turned into a heated debate, leaving us bewildered at how we got there. But through it all, we never lost sight of our commitment—to walk this path together, come what may. Those moments taught us the art of patience and listening, guiding us towards deeper understanding and empathy. Our journey has been a blend of sweetness and bitterness, much ...

  It is November 20. The year is 2010. The previous day had been such a fulfilling one. I had been traditionally given away in marriage. I love simplicity, so I was a stress-free bride. All I cared about was the groom showing up and being surrounded by family and friends. All the people that mattered in my life had been present. It is all that I cared about. My heart was filled with gratitude. The night had flown so fast. By 5am, I was up. I needed to embark on the journey to Bushenyi for our wedding, about 135km from my birthplace. As tradition demands, the groom, in the company of our Go-between , Rev. Didas Natweta was on time to pick me from home, together with my bridal entourage.   I remember the details of the rest of that day like it was yesterday. The disappointment of a scattered salon lady (my over trusting husband to-be had contracted one person to handle salon, cake and decoration and such a disappointment she was), the joy of being walked down the cathedral ais...