Museveni Urges Ugandans to Reduce High Bride Price Demands in Marriage

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has called on Ugandans to reduce excessive bride price demands during marriage ceremonies, saying that asking for large amounts of money and many cattle discourages young people from getting married and leaves some couples starting their lives with heavy debts. Museveni made the remarks on Saturday in Kiruhura District during an Okuhingira traditional marriage ceremony, where Kisha Isabel Byanjeru Kaboyo, daughter of State Minister for Luweero Triangle and Rwenzori Region Alice Kaboyo, was formally handed over to Aaron Mwiije Kafureeka. In his address, Muse

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has called on Ugandans to reduce excessive bride price demands during marriage ceremonies, saying that asking for large amounts of money and many cattle discourages young people from getting married and leaves some couples starting their lives with heavy debts. Museveni made the remarks on Saturday in Kiruhura District during an Okuhingira traditional marriage ceremony, where Kisha Isabel Byanjeru Kaboyo, daughter of State Minister for Luweero Triangle and Rwenzori Region Alice Kaboyo, was formally handed over to Aaron Mwiije Kafureeka. In his address, Museveni criticized the practice of demanding high bride prices, saying it has turned marriage into a financial transaction rather than a cultural ceremony meant to unite families. “Why ask for 15 cows and millions of shillings? Why are you selling your children? This makes young people fear marriage, and unfortunately some begin their lives together in debt,” Museveni said. The President urged Ugandans to preserve the cultural importance of marriage while avoiding practices that make it a way of seeking financial gain. He also criticized expensive wedding celebrations, saying they place unnecessary financial pressure on families, and called on religious leaders to continue encouraging simpler and more affordable weddings. Museveni made the remarks in the presence of senior government officials, military officers, and other invited guests. During the ceremony, he also praised Alice Kaboyo for her contribution during Uganda’s liberation struggle and for her long-standing loyalty and service over the years.