President Yoweri Museveni has cautioned the Banyankole community against demanding exorbitant bride prices and hosting extravagant wedding ceremonies.
The President issued the warning on Saturday during the traditional Okuhingira ceremony of Kisha Isabel Byanjeru Kaboyo at Kakyeera in Kiruhura District. She is the daughter of the State Minister for Luweero Triangle and Rwenzori Region, Hon. Alice Kaboyo.
The traditional event formally marked the handover of Kisha to Aaron Mwiije Kafureeka ahead of their church wedding.
President Museveni criticized families for turning cultural marriage customs into commercial transactions.
“You, the Banyankole, are damaging the population with this thing of Okujugusa (paying bride price). Why ask for 15 cows and millions of shillings? Why are you selling your children? You make young people fear marriage and, unfortunately, some begin their lives together in debt,” President Museveni said.
He argued that excessive financial demands force young couples to begin married life under heavy debt.
The President also condemned extravagant wedding celebrations that create severe economic pressure on families. He urged religious leaders to preach against costly wedding functions in their places of worship.
Recalling his own wedding to First Lady Maama Janet, President Museveni highlighted the virtues of simplicity.
“I have 15 grandchildren. I wedded Maama Janet abroad with only eight guests at a luncheon. These extravagant weddings are going to disturb people. I urge religious leaders to address this issue through their preaching,” President Museveni said.
He advised the newlyweds to anchor their marriage in genuine friendship and mutual trust.
“I reminded the couple that marriage is for two people. Build your home on friendship and do not allow unnecessary interference,” President Museveni said.
The President explained that he rarely attends private social gatherings due to complex presidential logistics. However, he made an exception for Hon. Alice Kaboyo due to her dedicated service during the liberation struggle.
He recounted that Hon. Alice Kaboyo joined his family in 1979 as a student and helped conceal preparations for the armed struggle.
Beyond the social celebrations, President Museveni encouraged local residents to utilize surrounding water resources for commercial agriculture. He highlighted the agricultural potential of River Rwizi as it feeds Lake Kakyera.
He pledged to direct Minister of Water and Environment Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire to organize regional stakeholders to protect the Kakyeera water ecosystem.
