Oyam Families Told to Balance Technology and Family Life.

27 October 2026, 10:44 am

By Solomon Okello

Oyam – Uganda

Oyam Families Told to Balance Technology and Family Life.

The Parish Priest of Anyeke Catholic Parish, Rev. Fr Pascal Moses Omara, has urged families to use mobile phones, especially the internet, responsibly in order to build stable and admirable families.

Fr Omara said that while smartphones are useful tools, their misuse can negatively affect family relationships. He noted that excessive phone use can divide attention within families, with parents spending more time on their devices instead of focusing on their spouses and children.

He made the remarks recently during the handover of smartphones to 40 community members in Oyam District by the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET)

Fr Omara also cited a growing communication gap within families as one of the disadvantages of excessive smartphone use. He explained that instead of giving attention to their partners and family members, some people become overly focused on their phones, which reduces face-to-face interaction and listening among family members.

Ayub Tenywa, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Oyam, who attended the same event, encouraged the beneficiaries to use the internet as a tool for generating income.

He encouraged families to strike a balance between using technology and maintaining healthy relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, togetherness, and responsible internet use.

Ayub said that there are many government programmes that people can access and benefit from through the internet. He urged community members to take advantage of digital opportunities to improve their livelihoods and access information on government services.

Meanwhile, Sidney Aikoyo, the District Operations Commander (DOC) of Oyam District, warned residents against the misuse of mobile phones to commit crimes.

He noted that security agencies are vigilant and that his office is ready to arrest and prosecute anyone found using digital platforms for criminal activities.

In her closing remarks, Sandra Aceng, the Executive Director (ED) of Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), said that the organisation is committed to promoting digital inclusion.

She explained that WOUGNET aims to empower communities through access to digital technologies and skills, enabling more people to participate in the digital economy.