Kampala — Women rights activists have allayed fears that the marriage Bill will promote divorce.

They argued that the Bill will instead provide for equality and non-discrimination during and at the dissolution of marriage.

"Divorce is not an automatic right," said Jackie Asiimwe, a legal and women affairs consultant.

She noted that the Bill aimed at safeguarding the institution of marriage by providing ways in which domestic violence can be prevented.

Assimwe was speaking to journalists at a workshop organised by women MPs on Monday.

She appealed to journalists to disseminate information on the Bill carefully.

Assimwe hailed the Government for introducing the Bill, saying it is a sign of Uganda's commitment to the promotion of human rights.

"The Government is a signatory to many human rights instruments at the international and regional level," she added.

The Bill, to be tabled before Parliament soon, is being reviewed by the Uganda Law Reform Commission and stakeholders.

Gulu Woman MP Betty Aol suggested that the word 'divorce' be removed from the title of the Bill and a more appealing word like 'enhancement' be introduced.

"The word 'divorce' is negative. My people have been asking me why we are making a law to separate families. I suggest that we make it more acceptable," she said.

Aol noted that the Bill was not meant to favour women, but to bring an end to the debilitating effects of domestic violence and the suffering brought by unjust and discriminatory marriage laws and practices.

The journalists suggested that a new clause on the arbitration process defining the various avenues and processes of reconciliation should be introduced in the Bill.