Residents of Kasese District are raising concern over what they say is an increase in suspected abortion cases, with four incidents reported within the space of one month.
The concern follows the discovery of the remains of a baby girl dumped in River Nyamwamba by residents of Kyondo in Nyamwamba Division, Kasese Municipality.
The remains were found near a desilting site, sparking outrage and grief among residents.
Kasese Senior Probation Officer Faisal Kiralira attributed the reported cases to underlying social challenges, particularly early marriages and teenage pregnancies.
He said the district recorded more than 291 cases of early marriage and defilement over the past year, although he did not specify how many of these cases were linked to the suspected abortions.
Kahindo Patience, a Kyondo resident, linked the problem to economic pressures that contribute to early marriage and leave some teenage mothers struggling to cope with pregnancy and parenthood.
Jessica Mbunda, another resident, said abortion has traditionally been considered taboo in the community but that attitudes appear to be changing among some young people who fear taking responsibility for an unintended pregnancy.
Annet Natukunda, a female municipal councillor for Scheme Ward, blamed some parents for not spending enough time with their children or providing guidance as they navigate social pressures.
She also called on young people to support girls who become pregnant at an early age and help them access the guidance and services they need.
The dumping of fetal remains in the river has also raised environmental and public health concerns.
John Bwambale, an environmentalist, warned that disposing of human remains in water sources could pose health risks to communities that depend on River Nyamwamba for their daily needs.
Kiralira called for the law to be enforced against those responsible for abandoning fetal remains, saying prosecution could serve as a deterrent while ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
