A screen grab of Disco Matanga

Authorities in Namayingo district have banned “Disco Matanga”, a popular funeral fundraising dance, due to concerns over its link to rising teenage pregnancies.

“Disco Matanga,” common in Namayingo and the broader Busoga region, involves evening fundraising gatherings followed by all-night dances that attract large crowds, especially young people. Originally adopted from Western Kenya, the practice has become deeply embedded in eastern Uganda’s culture.

Ronald Sanya, Namayingo district LC V chairperson, stated that these events often lead to inappropriate activities, including sexual encounters among teenagers, resulting in unwanted pregnancies. He cited a study by the gender and social affairs ministry of the Busoga kingdom, which identified “Disco Matanga” as a significant factor in the teenage pregnancy crisis.

Speaking at the launch of the Bold Campaign at Banda Secondary School, Kaawo Kawere Naay, the prime minister of Obwa Wakooli Bwa Bukooli chiefdom, emphasized the importance of banning such practices to reduce teenage pregnancies. Teachers also urged Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba to address the declining enrollment of girls in school, attributing it to early pregnancies and marriages fueled by these gatherings.

In response, Lumumba directed resident district commissioner David Kulaba Isabirye to enforce a region-wide ban on “Disco Matanga.” While community fundraising for funerals may continue, the associated night dances are now prohibited across Busoga.

Some local leaders and politicians, however, express mixed feelings. Margaret Makoha, Namayingo District Woman MP, acknowledged that poverty drives the need for fundraising to cover funeral expenses but criticized parents for not adequately safeguarding their children, noting that many allow their daughters to attend the night dances. She suggested holding fundraisers during the day and limiting children’s participation in nighttime events.

“The truth of the matter is that the people are poor. We still need each other to give a decent burial to some of our departed friends. What me I oppose is the issue of bringing even children to this fundraising. But if we say no fundraising should take place, then we shall also find challenges with our families that also need help. So the solution should be with us the communities,” Makoha stated.

Namayingo district continues to struggle with some of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy and early marriage in Uganda, though it has seen a minor reduction from 26% to 24% this year.

Source: The Observer

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