Mothers have been urged to take a crucial lead in the nurturing and upbringing of children, produce responsibly, and avoid transferring paternal anger onto their children.
The call was made by the CEO of Becky's Child Foundation, Ms Rebecca Alitwala Mubeezi, in her Mother's Day message.
Ms Mubeezi said mothers are the first teachers, and having endured nine months of pregnancy, childbirth risks and maternal burdens, they play a central role in shaping children's lives and should be concerned when children are poorly raised, mistreated or abused.
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"Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible mothers out there. Today we celebrate your endless love, strength, and sacrifice that lights up the lives of your children every single day," she said.
She added that mothers remain the "heroines and queens" of families and communities, appreciating their role in shaping society through child upbringing and emotional care.
However, Mubeezi used the occasion to caution against what she described as declining parental engagement, warning that some mothers are becoming absentee caregivers and leaving children to grow up without adequate guidance.
She noted that this trend is contributing to a "technology-raised generation" that is increasingly detached from love, morals and core values.
She further urged mothers to teach children the difference between right and wrong, even when societal opinion differs, and to balance care with discipline.
"As mothers, we need to stick by our children regardless of the situation. Let us not transfer hatred and anger to innocent children," she said.
Mubeezi also warned against using children as tools in parental conflicts, urging mothers to maintain unconditional love and emotional stability in the home.
"Stop using children as a shield or tools to tie the man to you. Let maternal love last longer and remain unconditional," she said.
Becky's Child Foundation dedicated this year's Mother's Day celebrations to its inspiration and role model, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs.
The organisation praised Kadaga for her long-standing advocacy for children's rights, especially in fighting child marriage, defilement, and promoting girls' education and gender equality.
"Mama Kadaga, for all the passion, commitment and mentorship you have shown, this year's Mother's Day is dedicated to you," the foundation said, also wishing her success ahead of her swearing-in into the 12th Parliament on May 13, 2026.
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Becky's Child Foundation focuses on the care and support of vulnerable children, orphans and the elderly, alongside girls' empowerment and women's advocacy.
