Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-10 07:45:20
The rise in single motherhood in Uganda is a complex issue influenced by various social, economic, and cultural factors, as highlighted in a groundbreaking 2022 study on motherhood and fatherhood conducted by Dr. Zaid Sekito of Makerere University. The study delves into the historical context of motherhood in Uganda, dating back to 1840, and examines the trends leading up to 2021.
One of the key findings of Sekito’s research is the impact of disparities in education and social status on the increasing prevalence of single motherhood in the country. Many uneducated women report being abandoned by their husbands, who seek relationships with more educated women. This shift creates tension in marriages and contributes to the breakdown of family structures.
During a workshop on the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) hosted by Makerere University, Sekito shared insights into the changing landscape of motherhood and fatherhood in Uganda. The workshop aimed to explore the reasons and implications of these changing dynamics on children’s well-being. Sekito’s study revealed that women who start their marriages under economically humble conditions are often left by their husbands as they advance academically and economically.
The study also sheds light on cultural and social factors contributing to the rise in single motherhood, such as excessive powers granted to men, cultural norms surrounding drinking and adultery, and restricted freedom for women. Additionally, the erosion of trust between men and women, fueled by issues like polygamy and domestic violence, further exacerbates the problem.
Sekito’s research underscores the importance of encouraging fathers to take responsibility for their families and discouraging the abandonment of women. The study funded by the United Kingdom Research Innovations (UKRI) aims to promote improved paternal involvement in parenting and address the shifting roles of fathers over time.
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics’ 2024 report on motherhood indicates a significant increase in single motherhood, with the percentage of single mothers rising from 20 to 30 percent. This trend reflects a growing number of women raising children independently and facing the challenges of single parenthood.
In response to these findings, Dr. Joshua Mugambwa of Makerere University emphasized the need for parents to prioritize the care of their children over work and financial gains. Neglecting parental guidance can lead to adverse outcomes for children, including aggression and indiscipline. Professor Sarah Ssali highlighted the role of abandonment of familial responsibilities by fathers in the rise of single motherhood, leading to social repercussions such as an increase in street children and child abandonment.
To address these issues, cultural reorientation is essential to curtail the excessive powers of men in marriage and address practices that restrict women’s freedom. By promoting better parenting practices and challenging traditional gender biases, Uganda can work towards fostering a supportive environment for mothers and children.
In conclusion, the study on motherhood and fatherhood in Uganda sheds light on the complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural factors influencing the rise in single motherhood. By addressing these challenges and promoting greater parental involvement, Uganda can strive towards creating a more equitable and supportive environment for families.
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