Widows and single mothers in Kwania District have complained about being treated unfairly or denied inheritance.They called for fair treatment in inheritance, saying many are pushed aside by clan leaders after the death of their husbands.
The women raised their concerns during a community baraza organized by the Uganda Law Reform Commission in Aduku Town Council.
The baraza was attended by more than 100 residents, including clan leaders, Local Council officials, and security representatives. It focused on succession, adoption, child custody, maintenance, and guardianship.
It was observed that widows are often denied a voice when families begin sharing property, leaving women and children vulnerable to eviction and poverty, their concerns reflecting a wider national problem.
Senior sociologist Jean Francis Adongo of the Uganda Law Reform Commission said succession disputes continue to hurt women and children the most.
She noted that some relatives illegally take over a deceased person’s property before court administrators are appointed, a practice known as intermeddling.
Under Uganda’s amended Succession Act, surviving spouses and children are legally protected and are entitled to a share of the deceased’s estate, whether or not there is a will. The reforms were introduced to promote gender equality and reduce discrimination against widows.
Susan Akoli, a member of Atek-Okwer-Awele and a businesswoman in Aduku Town Council, accused some clan leaders of excluding widows and children from inheritance decisions. She urged parents to recognize and support children born to single mothers to prevent future conflicts over property.
Caesar Obada, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner, said his office receives many complaints related to inheritance and child custody. He welcomed the Baraza, saying it would help communities understand the law and resolve disputes peacefully.
Geoffrey Oyugi, youth leader of Ogora Clan and chairperson of the Kwania Boda Boda Association, pledged to pass the information on to the young people he leads.
Kwania and Alebtong are Districts in Lango out of the 122 districts across Uganda selected for the nationwide outreach aimed at improving awareness of succession and family laws.
SOURCE: URN
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