Amplifying Children’s Voices Through the Children’s Parliament

At just 15 years old, Simon, a Senior One student from Bugiri District, has become a powerful voice for children’s rights. As Speaker of the Nankoma Sub-county Children’s Parliament, Simon is determined to fight child abuse and ensure every child in his community gets the chance to stay in school.

“I used to see children being forced to work in sugarcane plantations during school hours, but I didn’t know how to speak out,” Simon recalls. “When I joined the Children’s Parliament, I found the courage to stand up for them.”

In their very first sitting, Simon and his peers raised the urgent issue of child labor, calling on leaders and parents to protect children’s right to education. His passion and courage quickly earned him the role of Speaker, where he now leads fellow young parliamentarians in advocating for children’s rights across Bugiri.

For Shifra, 14, the Clerk of Parliament, this platform has been life-changing. She remembers her friend Sandra (not her real name), who was forced into marriage after becoming pregnant at just 14. “We presented her case in the Children’s Parliament and pushed for action. With support from the probation officer and police, Sandra was rescued and is now back in school after giving birth,” Shifra says proudly.

The Children’s Parliament has grown into a respected platform that influences policy in Bugiri. In fact, children have authored an ordinance currently under review at the Ministry of Local Government, an incredible milestone proving that young voices can shape real change.

According to the teacher and patron, Henry Emuria, the sessions now attract parents, community leaders, and government officials. “We have witnessed our children grow into influencers and change agents. They are inspiring others to speak up and shaping the future leaders of our country,” he says.

With courage and determination, Simon, Shifra, and their peers are proving that children are not just beneficiaries of change; they are active drivers of it. Through the Children’s Parliament, they are reclaiming their childhoods and building a brighter future filled with love, hope, and opportunity.

Story by: Mungu Jakisa Brian- Communications Officer.