Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has criticised the rising cost of weddings and the growing practice of demanding high bride prices, warning that the trend is discouraging young people from getting married and starting families.
Speaking during the traditional Okuhingira ceremony of Isabel Kisha Byanjeru Kaboyo, daughter of State Minister for Luweero Trianagle and Rwenzori Region Alice Kaboyo, in Kiruhura District on Saturday, Museveni said extravagant marriage celebrations are placing unnecessary financial pressure on couples.
According to the President, many young people are beginning married life burdened by debt because of expensive wedding ceremonies and cultural expectations.
“These extravagant weddings are going to disturb people. I urge religious leaders to address this issue through their preaching,” Museveni said.
The Ugandan leader called on religious leaders to use their platforms to encourage simpler and more affordable weddings that emphasize the values of marriage instead of lavish celebrations.
Museveni also reflected on his own marriage to First Lady Janet Museveni, saying their wedding was deliberately modest.
“I have 15 grandchildren. I wedded my wife Janet abroad with only 8 guests at a luncheon,” he said, contrasting it with today’s increasingly expensive ceremonies.
The President also criticised the practice of demanding large bride prices, particularly in communities where families expect significant numbers of cattle and cash before approving marriages.
He questioned parents who view marriage negotiations as an opportunity for financial gain, arguing that children should not be treated as a source of wealth.
“You the Banyankole are really damaging the population. Parents, why are you selling children? What’s the problem? Sixteen cows, I don’t know how many cows. Why do you have to get wealth through your children? Why can’t you work for yourself?” Museveni said.
He warned that excessive financial demands could discourage young people from marrying or force couples to begin their lives together under heavy economic strain.
Museveni urged the Banyankole community and other cultural groups to preserve the traditional significance of marriage while avoiding practices that turn weddings into displays of wealth and social status.
