Residents of Kazo district witnessed a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony as two long-time community members formally tied the knot under Ugandan law.

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Kazo district, Hajji Badru Mayanja Majwala, presided over and witnessed the civil marriage of 63-year-old businessman Tugume Esau and 52-year-old businesswoman Namukasa Ellon. The ceremony took place at the district headquarters, in the CAO’s office, in accordance with the Marriage Act.

The couple, both residents of Rwemikoma, entered the union as a bachelor and bachelorette respectively. Tugume, son of the late Rwebandira Timiseo, exchanged vows with Namukasa, daughter of Muwonge Sulaiman, in a ceremony attended by family, friends and members of the community.

In his remarks, Hajji Mayanja emphasized the importance of love, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in marriage. He cautioned couples against domestic violence, noting that it has destroyed many families, but also reminded them that Ugandan laws exist to protect individuals in cases of abuse.

“Respect each other and handle your issues with maturity so that you maintain dignity in your homes and in the community,” he advised.

The ceremony was witnessed by Barugahare Stephen, 64 and Busingye Night 38, both married professionals from the area, fulfilling the legal requirement for witnesses in a civil marriage.

Attendees described the union as a powerful reminder that companionship and love are not limited by age. One guest noted, “This marriage shows that it is never too late to find happiness and build a life together.”

The event was also attended by Rev. Kosia Asimwe, a leader of older persons in the district, who commended the CAO for properly conducting the ceremony in line with Ugandan law.

Civil marriages in Uganda are governed by the Marriage Act and are conducted by registrars of marriages. While the Registrar General officiates marriages in Kampala, Chief Administrative Officers are mandated to serve as registrars in districts across the country.

Such marriages are monogamous in nature and require compliance with legal procedures, including publication of a notice of marriage, verification of eligibility and the presence of witnesses before a certificate is issued.

Following the ceremony, celebrations continued among relatives and well-wishers, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the couple, who are expected to continue living and working in Rwemikoma.
The Writer is Tinyefuza Naboth -Communications officer for Kazo district local government