Speaker Anitah Among Vows to Guard Her Seat Amidst a Personal Story of Resilience
By John Kusolo
Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among has pledged to fiercely protect her position as Speaker of Parliament, highlighting a personal journey marked by resilience and determination. Speaking at the launch of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum to End Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy, Among recounted her challenging upbringing and underscored her commitment to her role and to the causes she champions.
A Journey of Perseverance
Among's story is one of overcoming significant obstacles. She recounted how she worked as a house girl, sold local brew, and took on a cleaning job at Centenary Bank to survive after fleeing her home. Her decision to leave was driven by her father's insistence on forcing her into a child marriage, a fate that had already befallen her older sisters.
"I had to run away from home to avoid a forced marriage and carve out a future for myself," Among shared. Her journey from such humble beginnings to becoming the Speaker of Parliament is a testament to her resilience and determination.
Commitment to Ending Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy
The launch of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum to End Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy provided a platform for Among to address these pressing issues. In Uganda, child marriage and teenage pregnancy remain significant challenges, often perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting opportunities for young girls.
Speaker Among expressed her firm stance against the use of contraceptives among teenagers. She argued that despite the socioeconomic challenges, young girls should focus on understanding their life goals and delaying motherhood until they are more prepared.
"We should not just give our girls contraceptives," she asserted. "They need to be empowered to understand what they want in life and to delay having children until they are ready."
A Call for Empowerment and Education
Among's approach emphasizes the importance of education and empowerment for young girls. By sharing her own story, she hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles they may face. She believes that providing girls with education and opportunities is crucial in the fight against child marriage and teenage pregnancy.
The Uganda Parliamentary Forum to End Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy aims to mobilize resources, create awareness, and advocate for policies that protect the rights of young girls. Among's leadership in this forum underscores her commitment to these issues and her dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations in Uganda.
Protecting Her Role as Speaker
Reflecting on her journey and the struggles she has overcome, Among is determined to safeguard her role as Speaker. Her story of resilience serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for individuals to rise above their circumstances and make significant contributions to society.
"I worked hard to get here, and I will not let go of this seat easily," she declared. Among’s resolve to maintain her position is driven by a deep sense of duty to her constituents and a desire to continue advocating for critical social issues.
Speaker Anitah Among's narrative is one of remarkable perseverance and steadfast dedication. Her personal experiences and commitment to ending child marriage and teenage pregnancy highlight the importance of empowerment and education. As she continues to guard her seat in Parliament, Among serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of resilience and the impact of dedicated advocacy.
As Uganda continues to address these critical social issues, the leadership and personal example of Speaker Among will undoubtedly play a crucial role in driving change and fostering a better future for young girls across the nation.
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