State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatisation, Evelyn Anite, has ignited a lively debate on social media after advocating for cohabitation before marriage as a means of understanding one’s partner.
In a series of tweets, Anite argued that living together before saying “I do” allows couples to become friends, understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and prepare for the compromises that marriage entails.
“Cohabiting before marriage is not a sin. It just gives you an opportunity to understand your partner better, make him/her your friend such that on the day you say ‘I do,’ you know each other’s pain points & strong points,” she wrote.
Her comments drew mixed reactions from followers. Some criticised her stance as contrary to biblical teachings. One user, Mbonye Anicet, asked, “Hmmmmmm, so you are planning to amend the Bible also?!” while RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD cited Hebrews 13:4, questioning her advice. Anite responded by encouraging people to read the scripture themselves and emphasised that her advocacy was about intentional cohabitation with the goal of marriage.
Other users supported her views, praising her honesty and framing cohabitation as a practical way to avoid early divorce. Loyce Nabaasa wrote, “Some run away in the process of knowing each other,” to which Anite replied, “It’s better that way rather than running after one week of the wedding.”
Anite also addressed concerns about morality, stressing that cohabitation should be approached with the intention to marry. “Doing it with the intention to marry is okay… once you decide to marry, do it for life—no turning back,” she said. She defended her personal experience, sharing that intentional pre-marital cohabitation helped her build a strong, lasting relationship.
The discussion drew attention from both critics and supporters, reflecting ongoing societal debates in Uganda about modern relationships, marriage, and the role of cultural and religious norms.
Some followers called Anite an inspiration for young couples, noting her emphasis on mutual respect, love, and commitment.
Anite’s comments highlight the tension between traditional religious teachings and contemporary approaches to relationships, with social media providing a platform for robust debate on what constitutes preparation for a successful marriage.
The Ugandan law does not legally recognize cohabitation as marriage, regardless of duration or children, creating a legal vacuum for property and inheritance; however, courts increasingly apply principles of equity to protect vulnerable partners (often women) in long-term relationships, granting property rights based on contributions (financial or domestic) under doctrines like “constructive marriage,” though this isn’t guaranteed and clear documentation of intent is recommended.
