Women under the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) have called for dialogue on the ongoing amendments to the Marriage Bill 2024.
Florence Nassanga, Chairperson of the Interfaith Women of Uganda under IRCU, urged policymakers to address the root causes of cohabitation rather than criminalizing it.
She highlighted that many young couples resort to cohabitation due to the high dowry demands imposed by parents, making formal marriage difficult despite their willingness to legalize their unions.
Nassanga made these remarks ahead of the International Women’s Day, which will be celebrated on March 8 under the theme “Accelerating Action for Gender Equality.”
The Bill proposed by Tororo District Woman Representative, Hon. Sarah Opendi was tabled on her behalf on Thursday, 03 October 2024 by Alebtong District Woman MP, Hon. Dorcus Acen.
The Bill focuses strongly on equal property rights, the protection of minors, and new regulations on marital arrangements.
By Olivia Nabaggala
5th March 2025
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