The legal framework
Uganda has no cohabitation statute. Courts have occasionally recognised contributions to jointly acquired property, but the long-debated marriage and divorce bill, which would have addressed cohabitation, has not been enacted. Same-sex relationships are criminalised, with severe penalties under 2023 legislation.
Key points
| Status | Recognised by statute in some of these jurisdictions, not in others |
|---|---|
| Property | Claims generally rest on proving financial or non-financial contribution |
| Maintenance | Available only where a statute provides for it |
| Inheritance | A partner rarely inherits without a will, unless legislation says otherwise |
| Children | Their rights depend on parentage, not on the parents' marital status |
| Registration of customary marriage | Often the simplest way to convert a de facto union into recognised rights |
| No cohabitation statute | Recognition requires one of the statutory or customary marriage forms |
| Customary marriage | Registrable within six months of the ceremony |
| Reform | Marriage law reform has been debated for decades without passing |
In practice
- Keep documentary proof of every contribution to property — receipts, transfers, building materials.
- Register a customary marriage where that route is available; it is usually the cheapest protection.
- Make a will, and keep a copy with a trusted third party.
- Ensure children are registered and filiation acknowledged.
- Register a customary marriage promptly; late registration requires a court order.
- Keep evidence of contribution to land and buildings.
Cost and coverage
Registration and wills are inexpensive; litigating a contribution claim is not.
Recent changes
The clearest regional trend is judicial recognition of non-financial contribution, alongside statutory protection for long cohabitation in parts of the Caribbean.
Where to go
- Civil registry for marriage registration.
- Legal aid schemes, law clinics and women's rights organisations.
- Local courts for maintenance and property claims.
Worth knowing
A surviving partner without a marriage certificate or a will is in the weakest position of anyone in these systems — often facing the deceased's family with nothing in writing. Fix that while both partners are alive. Land is usually the main asset and is often registered in one name only. Getting both names on the title is the most effective protection available.
Official sources and links
- UN Human Rights Office — ratified treaties and country reviews
- ILO NATLEX — national legislation database