An Anthropological Discourse to Christian Views on Polygamy and Plural Relationships in Uganda

Abstract

Marriage and family are prominent institutions in society because they define a person’s essence of life and identity, through providing means and conditions for survival, participation and sustenance. Marriage thus has forms that are inclusive, given the social realities in an area. However, as society changes, we realise that the institution is also changing to respond to new anthropological demands. This paper deals with the polygamous form of marriage and the accruing transitions as well as tensions in this institution. The paper gives a cross sectional analysis of the phenomenon, discussing its continuities and discontinuities. The paper is aimed at highlighting the anthropological basis of marriage so that society may not judge people at the periphery, but support and understand them as well as regulate the institution of marriage to be inclusive. In order to discuss the surrounding tensions, the discussion will concern polygamy and Plural relationships based on situation analysis in Uganda, personal reflections, literature and field data.