By Aggrey Twesigye
Mbarara City Probation Officer Henry Mushabe has appealed to the public to report cases of child neglect and domestic violence, including abuse against men, to help protect vulnerable families and ensure justice.
Speaking during an interview at his office on Friday, Mushabe said the probation office receives between two and five cases of child neglect and abuse every day. He described the growing number of reported cases as worrying and called for greater community involvement in safeguarding children.
Mushabe attributed the rise in domestic violence to poverty, lack of mutual respect between partners and inadequate household income, saying these challenges continue to fuel family conflicts.
He urged members of the public to report cases of abuse by visiting the probation office, calling the toll-free line 165, or reporting to the nearest police station for appropriate action.
The probation officer also warned stepparents, particularly stepmothers, against mistreating children, stressing that anyone found guilty of child torture or abuse will face the full force of the law.
