Limit English use at home – Nnabagereka urges parents

The Nnabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, on Saturday officially closed the 19th edition of the Kisaakate children’s camp at Hormisdalen School in Gayaza, calling on parents to take a more active role in nurturing their children’s mental wellbeing and cultural identity. 

Addressing children, parents and organisers, the Nnabagereka encouraged families teach their children their tribal dialects so that they do not become heavily dependant on the English language

As such, the queen asked parents to speak local dialects whenever they are home so children can master at least one indigenous language

“The children who came here have progressed in learning local languages although many of them come here without being able to utter a single word,” she said.

“We continue to urge parents to speak to their children in local dialects so that they can master at least one other language, not just living their whole lives speaking English.”

The Nnabagereka said she was pleased that participants were leaving the camp enriched, independent in thought and equipped with skills that go beyond passive phone use, adding that children should be active thinkers who use their minds productively.

On the other hand, the queen expressed concern over the growing challenges facing young people in the current generation, particularly the rise in mental health concerns among children and adolescents.

She noted that mental illness has become a serious issue, often fuelled by worry, fear, depression and loneliness. 

“It has been established that so many people are not mentally upright. This stems from mental disorders that are caused by worry, fear and depression especially when lonesome,” she said

“In Uganda, 23% of children suffer from mental illnesses. This causes them to resort to drugs which in turn have driven some of them to harm themselves or to harm others."

The Nnabagereka said the fight against mental illness requires collective effort, stressing that when one family member is affected, the entire household feels the strain. 

She explained that this year’s Kisaakate placed special focus on educating children about protecting their mental health, recognising danger signs and seeking help early.

Children were encouraged to return to their homes and schools as ambassadors for mental health awareness, supporting peers who may be struggling and speaking out instead of suffering in silence.

According to the Nnabagereka, empowering children with knowledge and confidence is key to preventing long-term mental health challenges.