Uganda bans “disco matanga” over sexual abuse
Ban motivated by sexual abuse
The Ugandan government has decided to ban “disco matanga”, a common practice at funerals, because of the sexual excesses associated with them. These funeral parties, which take place late at night, consist of young women dancing, often under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in exchange for payment. The money collected is used to cover funeral costs. However, numerous cases of sexual violence and forced prostitution have been denounced by human rights NGOs.
Strict measures to end this practice
Ugandan Minister of General Affairs Justine Kasule Lumumba has strongly condemned the “disco matanga”, calling the dances “devilish”. She announced that the police and law enforcement agencies have been instructed to stop the practice. Anyone involved in organizing the parties will be arrested and prosecuted in court. The government is doing so to protect young girls who are often forced to dance in a suggestive manner in scanty clothing and who are sexually abused during the events.
A widespread phenomenon in eastern Uganda
Originating in Kenya, the practice of “disco matanga” has spread to the border districts of eastern Uganda, particularly in Namayingo. According to local authorities, the region has already recorded two deaths linked to these funeral parties: a young girl gang-raped and a boy killed in an attack. Kenya, facing similar problems, had already banned “disco matanga” in 2018.
Conclusion
The Ugandan government’s ban on “disco matanga” aims to end a practice that has become synonymous with sexual violence and abuse. By taking firm action, the authorities are seeking to protect vulnerable young women while ensuring that those responsible for these abuses are brought to justice. This decision marks an important step towards combating sexual abuse in Uganda, particularly in border regions where these funeral practices were still common.
