The film The Virgin follows the story of a dying father demanding omutwalo for his daughter. The concept of omutwalo has been in existence for generations, and while it is a well-known tradition, there are still some interesting facts about this practice that are not widely known:
1. The omutwalo payment varies from one region to another.
In Uganda, there are different tribes and ethnic groups, and each has its own unique way of conducting the bride price ceremony. The payment may involve the exchange of livestock, money, or other valuable items. The ceremony may also vary in duration, with some lasting a few hours while others can take several days.
2. The omutwalo payment is not just about the bride.
The Omutwalo payment is not just about the bride, but it also involves the groom's family. The groom's family is required to pay a price that is deemed suitable by the bride's family. This payment is considered a gesture of appreciation for raising the bride and helping her become a suitable wife.
3. The omutwalo payment is seen as a sign of respect.
In Uganda, the payment of omutwalo is seen as a sign of respect for the bride's family. It is considered an important part of the marriage process, and not paying it is considered a breach of tradition and can lead to the dissolution of the marriage.
4. The omutwalo payment can be used to settle disputes.
In some cases, the payment of omutwalo can be used to settle disputes between families. It is seen to reconcile the two families and prevent any further conflict.
5. The omutwalo payment has faced criticism for promoting the commodification of women.
While the payment of omutwalo is a traditional practice, it has faced criticism from some quarters for promoting the commodification of women. Critics argue that it reduces women to mere objects that can be bought and sold and that it perpetuates gender inequality.
The payment of omutwalo is an important aspect of Ugandan culture and is deeply rooted in tradition. The movie, The Virgin, explores this concept in fine detail. Don’t forget to tune in this Sunday, 9 April at 7:20 pm on DStv channel 141 to watch it.