Assessing the Socio-Economic Effects of Pre-Marital Sex Among the Youth of Kibaati in Mubende Municipality, Mubende District.

Abstract

Uganda remains flooded with various developmental issues which, at present are still unresolved and poverty is one of them (World Bank 2008).Such developmental issues are deeply associated with corruption, poor quality of education, unemployment, health issues, crimes, and environmental degradation (Stiftung, 2009, UNICEF and EPRC 2014). However, these are not the only apparent incidents that are present in the country. There is another problem existing behind every person’s knowledge that needs to be paid attention to – pre-marital sex. The study aimed at establishing the social-economic effects of pre-marital sex on the youth of Kibaati, Mubende municipality and Uganda at large. The objectives of the study were; to identify the social and economic effects of pre-marital sex among the youth and the reasons for the youth’s persistent engagement in pre-marital sex as well as looking at the strategies undertaken to combat the vice by the various stakeholders.A descriptive research design was used and a planned sample size of 80 respondents throughout the study to achieve the objective. Data was collected using multi methods- Focus Group Discussion and review of existing literature and questionnaires. The stratified random technique was also used to draw respondents from a sampling frame sourced from the local council Management Unit.The study revealed some effects which include; HIV/AIDS, Regrets, dropping out of school, Domestic violence, fall out with parents, loss of self-respect, loss of family support, increased number of street children and Insecurity, among others.

Conclusively, premarital sex is broad a concept, it cannot be handled in just one single research but rather needs a series of handling to manage the elements associated with it for instance not recognizing the value of religion, government policies and constitutional amendments,community mobilization, sensitization and awareness creation, low respect for sexual dignity and inadequate parental care. It recommends a ban on Sex Education in all aspects of life. Government needs topartner with NGOs on advocacy campaigns so as to sustain a sex free life among the youth, discouraging promotion of condom use, and other birth control measures. The church must pronounce and maintain its lessons of purity until marriage. Effectively supervise both academic and social life of youth in the community.This research can be added to the existing information and intervention strategies.

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