By Our Reporter 

Serere District – A growing number of women in Serere District are raising alarm over the increasing burden of family responsibilities shifted onto their shoulders as men abandon traditional roles, leaving women to carry the weight of household duties and family welfare alone.

This concern was brought to light during a family financial management session held at Serere Primary School, where mothers voiced frustration about the uneven distribution of family obligations, and called for shared responsibilities, increased male involvement in family life, and joint decision-making.

Annet Aibo, one of the participants, noted a troubling trend where men are increasingly leaving their rural homes for trading centers in search of better living conditions, but end up disengaged from their families.

“Many men earn money in town but do not contribute to the basic needs of their families. Women are left struggling to feed, clothe, and educate the children,” Aibo said.

This issue, she explained, is rooted in a complex mix of economic migration, shifting gender expectations, and weakening family dynamics.

Joyce Amulen echoed Aibo’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for men to return to their foundational role as providers and decision-makers within the home, working alongside their wives rather than abandoning them.

However, the discussion also drew attention to other perspectives. William Opede suggested that the perceived dominance by some women in marital settings contributes to men feeling disrespected and undervalued, leading them to withdraw from family obligations.

“Some women focus more on control than cooperation, and that’s pushing men away from their families,” Opede remarked.

In a similar vein, Rymond Opio claimed that some women may be overly defensive, often prioritizing support for their biological families over their marital homes. He also noted that some men prefer to eat at trading centers due to concerns over hygiene and food handling in their own homes.

Margret Ademun urged for a balanced approach in marriage, where love and affection are complemented by responsibility and commitment. She emphasized the value of women maintaining a presence in the home, which she believes contributes to marital stability.

Addressing the broader issue, Dr. Cosmas Agweta, Executive Director of Cjila Africa Links Institute, advised couples to uphold confidentiality in family matters and to foster mutual respect and submission within relationships.

“The foundation of a strong family lies in respectful communication and cooperation,” Dr. Agweta advised.

Adding a spiritual perspective, Rev. Canon Davidi Epongu Opio, the Archdeacon of Serere Archdeaconry in the Church of Uganda Diocese of Soroti, cited poverty as a major driver of family conflict, exacerbating tension and contributing to breakdowns in household harmony.

“Poverty fuels stress and violence in homes. But love and respect can heal and strengthen relationships,” Canon Opio stated.

As discussions continue, community leaders and families alike are encouraged to embrace shared responsibility, mutual understanding, and open communication to build stronger and more resilient households in Serere.