Museveni: Banyankole Must End 'Selling' Daughters Through High Bride Price

President Yoweri Museveni has strongly criticized the escalating bride price demands among the Banyankole, likening the practice to “selling” daughters and warning that it is turning the sacred institution of marriage into a financial transaction.

Speaking at the Okuhingira ceremony for Kisha Isabel Byanjeru Kaboyo, daughter of Minister Alice Kaboyo, in Kiruhura district, the President questioned the logic behind demands for numerous cows and significant sums of money. He argued that such exorbitant requirements instill fear of marriage in young people and often lead couples to begin their married lives burdened by debt.

Museveni advocated for simpler wedding ceremonies, sharing his own modest wedding with First Lady Janet Museveni, which was attended by only eight guests. He urged religious leaders to use their platforms to preach against extravagant celebrations that impose financial strain on families and newlyweds.

The President emphasized that the traditional Banyankole Okuhingira ceremony should symbolize the union of two families, offer blessings, and preserve cultural heritage, rather than function as a commercial enterprise. He noted his rare attendance at private events, stating his presence was a testament to Kaboyo’s long-standing service and loyalty to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), recounting her contributions dating back to the liberation struggle and her care for his family.

Beyond the marriage discourse, Museveni commended cattle corridor communities for adopting dairy farming and pledged government support to protect vital water systems like Kakyeera and River Rwizi, urging livestock farmers to manage pasture resources effectively.

https://observer.ug/news/bride-price-museveni-tells-banyankole-to-stop-selling-their-girls