New religion discourages use of
cellphones
Publish Date: May 15, 2013
By George Bita
Over 1,300 children have failed to enroll for universal primary education in Mayuge district because of a religious sect that discourages followers from attending school.
Over 1,300 children have failed to enroll for universal primary education in Mayuge district because of a religious sect that discourages followers from attending school.
The resident district commissioner (RDC) Margaret Mbeiza, disclosed that security is hunting for the leaders of the sect for frustrating Government programmes. The sect said to be originating from Kenya, calls itself Njiri ya nsi and its leaders are suspected to have crossed over to Kenya after learning of the action by the district authorities.
“To them, education is useless and they are misleading followers, especially on the Lake Victoria islands of Jaguzi and Sagiti. Our security operatives are in pursuit of the leaders and they will be prosecuted once arrested,” Mbeiza told New Vision.
She said the sect was also discouraging people from being immunised as well as using mobile telephones.
The Sagiti LC1 chairperson Peter Odwori, explained that the children were indoctrinated into the faith by parents at a very tender age.
“They encourage them to go fishing since it is the only resource on the islands. They use the Jesus miracle of providing fish and bread to lure youths into fishing,” Odwori narrated.
Stephen Kyakwise, the district education officer said local leaders need to sensitise the people, especially parents.
“Local leaders and heads of schools can help force the islanders to develop a positive attitude to education,” he said.
