The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has sparked widespread discussion after openly questioning the growing trend of young men marrying significantly older women, calling some of these women “grannies.”
Addressing a recent gathering, Mayiga voiced concern over why young people are choosing relationships with older partners instead of marrying peers closer to their age.
“Once you finish school, there’s nothing stopping you from getting married. We married when we were young, and here we are, still happily married,” he said.
“Why Marry a Woman in Her 50s?” — Mayiga’s Candid Advice
The Buganda Premier didn’t mince words, highlighting the challenges that may arise when youth pursue older partners.
“Why marry a woman who’s in her 50s only to struggle to have children?” he asked, emphasizing the practical difficulties of age-gap unions.
Mayiga’s remarks reflect a traditional perspective that encourages early marriage as a foundation for family building, responsibility, and trust.
Turning the Focus to Young Women
The Katikkiro didn’t stop at advising men. He also addressed young women who are marrying older men — sometimes old enough to be their fathers.
“You young women are practically marrying your fathers, then later complain that they aren’t functioning well in bedroom affairs. What did you expect? Most of them already have back issues,” Mayiga noted bluntly.
His words highlight the generational and health-related considerations that come with marrying much older partners.
Encouraging Early Marriage and Responsibility
Throughout his address, Mayiga emphasized that marrying young fosters trust, builds responsibility, and allows couples to enjoy life together while still energetic.
“Get married now when the gown can still look good on you and your face is still fresh. Marriage is a responsibility, and married people easily earn trust,” he concluded.
His message is a clear push for the youth to embrace marriage early as a means of personal growth and societal stability.
Public Reactions: Debate Ignites Online
Mayiga’s remarks have already sparked intense debate across social media platforms:
- Some Ugandans support his advice, praising him for upholding traditional family values.
- Others criticize his comments as outdated, arguing that love and marriage are personal choices and shouldn’t be judged solely by age.
- Many young people also point out that relationships with older partners can offer stability, mentorship, and financial security, challenging Mayiga’s perspective.
The discussion has brought attention to changing marriage dynamics in Uganda, where younger generations increasingly explore non-traditional relationships.
Final Thoughts
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga’s comments serve as a provocative reminder of Uganda’s traditional expectations regarding marriage and family.
While some youth may choose partners outside conventional age ranges, his message emphasizes that marrying young can foster energy, trust, and long-term stability.
Whether one agrees or not, his statements are reigniting conversations about modern love, responsibility, and cultural norms in Ugandan society.
💬 What do you think of Mayiga’s advice on young men and women marrying older partners?
Is age-gap marriage a challenge, or a matter of personal choice? Share your thoughts below!
