By Mugweri Umar, Writer @muslim-writers guild of Uganda
Nowadays, whenever there is a big match in recreational centers like at the newly renovated Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), the energy is high and Ugandans come out in large numbers to support. However, there is a worrying trend that is “spoiling the soup.” You find some fans wearing jerseys printed with very vulgar and “dirty” words. What started as a joke or “vibing” is now becoming a big problem for our country’s morals.
When we allow people to walk around in public with such language on their clothes, we are telling everyone that being vulgar is the new “standard.” The biggest victims here are our children. Kids copy what they see. If they see grown-ups laughing and rocking jerseys with insults, they will think that is how life is. Slowly, our society will lose that respect and “ubuntu” we are known for.
This is where we, the parents, must step in. Our job is not just to pay school fees and provide food. We are the first “coaches” for our children. It is our duty to teach them how to handle pressure, how to behave in public, and how to have empathy for others. If a parent is involved in a child’s life, that child will perform better in school and know how to work well with others in the community.
Even our religious teachings are very clear on this. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us about modesty. He said that part of being a good Muslim is “leaving alone what does not concern you” basically, focusing on things that add value to your character. Also, the Promised Messiah (as) in his book Malfoozat emphasized that we must build self-respect and respect for others. If you do not respect yourself, you cannot respect the public space like Namboole.
To fix this, we need to work together as Ugandans. It should not be “everyone for himself.” As parents and neighbors, let us talk to the youth and show them that you can still enjoy the game and have “clout” without being vulgar. By standing together, we can make sure our society stays strong and our children grow up with the right values. Let us keep the Ugandan flag flying high, both in sports and in our behavior!
