TAKEAWAYS

• Miria Matembe says women should be free to propose marriage and express romantic interest in men.

• She argues that cultural norms, particularly in Ankole and many other societies, unfairly discourage women from taking the initiative.

• Her remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with supporters calling for change and critics defending traditional courtship roles.

One of Uganda’s pioneering women’s rights advocates, Miria Matembe, has stirred public debate after calling for greater acceptance of women proposing marriage to men.

Matembe, who has spent decades championing gender equality and women’s empowerment, questioned why society continues to expect women to wait for men to make the first move in relationships. According to her, such expectations contribute to social challenges, including the growing number of single mothers who are often unfairly blamed for their circumstances.

“In our culture, especially in Ankole, if a woman openly tells a man she loves him or wishes to marry him, many people view it as unacceptable,” Matembe said.

She noted that despite repeated calls for gender equality, many communities still maintain rigid expectations about how relationships should begin, often placing women in passive roles while men are expected to take the lead.

“Men often say they are the stronger and more confident gender, but some become uncomfortable when a woman simply expresses interest in them. I do not understand why such a simple gesture should be feared,” she added.

Matembe argued that women should have the freedom to approach men and openly communicate their feelings without being judged or stigmatized. She believes that allowing women to make the first move would help create healthier and more honest relationships.

Her remarks have since generated widespread discussion on social media, with supporters praising her for challenging outdated traditions. Critics, however, argue that cultural norms and human nature dictate that men should remain the initiators in courtship and marriage proposals.