Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba has warned couples against misusing social media, saying the platforms are increasingly undermining trust and threatening the stability of marriages in Uganda.
Nabakooba said excessive and irresponsible use of social media, coupled with declining reliance on God, is contributing to quarrels and the breakdown of relationships.
She was delivering a message from the central government at a traditional introduction ceremony in which Ruth Nakintu introduced her husband, Douglas Wakibugo, to her parents in Mityana Central Division, Mityana Municipality.
Nakintu is a daughter of former Mityana District Woman MP Sylvia Namabidde.
“Social media has become a threat to marriages because many people are using it badly,” Ms Nabakooba said.
She urged couples to exercise restraint when using social media and avoid using the platforms to expose, embarrass or attack each other, saying such behaviour can erode trust and undermine marital stability.
Nabakooba also encouraged couples to strengthen their faith in God, saying religious values can help them navigate challenges within marriage.
“Let us trust in God and avoid quarrelling on social media. We should use these platforms responsibly and not allow them to destroy our relationships,” she said.
The minister’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the effect of social media on relationships, particularly where private disagreements are taken online.
Buganda Minister of Culture and Traditions Dr Anthony Wamala congratulated Ms Nakintu upon reaching the stage of marriage and acknowledged the challenges young women face, including deception by some men.
Dr Wamala commended the parents of the couple for preserving cultural values and fulfilling their responsibilities in the marriage process.
“In our culture, the ceremony is now complete. What remains is for them to go to church and pray for their marriage,” he said.
