The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has issued a stark warning over rising drug and alcohol abuse among Ugandan adolescents who are mostly school going kids. The man of God is asking that parents, schools, communities, and faith leaders to take urgent action to protect the nation’s youth. Delivering his Easter 2026 message at […]
The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has issued a stark warning over rising drug and alcohol abuse among Ugandan adolescents who are mostly school going kids.
The man of God is asking that parents, schools, communities, and faith leaders to take urgent action to protect the nation’s youth.
Delivering his Easter 2026 message at the Church of Uganda Provincial Secretariat in Namirembe on April 2, Archbishop Kaziimba revealed that over 70% of teenagers have either used drugs or alcohol, a trend he described as alarming and threatening the health, education, and spiritual well-being of young people.
“We must take collective responsibility in safeguarding the well-being and future of our young people. Let Christ be their anchor, not drugs. Our youth need guidance, counseling, and faith to resist the temptations that destroy lives.”the Archbishop said.
He noted that the Church of Uganda has launched a comprehensive Drug Prevention Training Manual, designed for schools and universities under its purview. The resource provides a faith based framework to equip administrators, chaplains, teachers, and parents with tools for guidance, counseling, and rehabilitation of youths affected by substance abuse.
“I call upon every diocese, every parish, and every believer to take responsibility in addressing this issue. Let us commit ourselves to safeguarding the future of our young people. Let Christ be their anchor, not drugs.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
The Archbishop linked drug abuse prevention to wider spiritual and societal themes.
“Drug abuse among the youth is not just a personal issue; it is a threat to society. Faith, counseling, and care are the strongest shields. Our youth are Uganda’s future, and we must anchor them in Christ, in values, and in community support.” Archbishop Kaziimba warned.
He reminded believers that Easter is a season of hope, renewal, and the power of Christ’s resurrection. He quoted from the book of John 11:25–26.
He asked: “Do you believe that He is the resurrection and the life? Then let us anchor our youth in faith, not addiction.”
He also mentioned the role of community and reconciliation in shaping youth behavior. Archbishop Kaziimba revealed ongoing Church efforts in post election reconciliation, where he noted that stable, peaceful communities reduce the pressures and instability that can drive young people toward substance abuse.
He also spoke of his recent visit to Nakivale Refugee Settlement, where he delivered humanitarian aid, interacting with children and families affected by conflict and poverty.
“We need each other. We cannot function well in unstable environments. Our youth must grow in faith and safety, supported by communities that care.” he said.
Archbishop Kaziimba further called for a nationwide tree-planting campaign, urging dioceses to plant over 385,000 trees each over two years. He framed this as a lesson in responsibility, discipline, and care for creation, values that complement faith-based guidance and drug prevention efforts.
The Archbishop also mentioned the Church’s global leadership role, referencing his participation in GAFCON 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria, and his work with the Anglican Relief and Development Fund. These engagements, he said, reinforce the Church’s commitment to social, humanitarian, and moral leadership, giving credence to its youth programs.
