When Milly Nansubuga’s boyfriend of three years got down on one knee and presented her with a sparkling silver ring in front of family and friends in Kampala, the room erupted in joy. The moment was picture-perfect. But a few weeks later, Milly was puzzled. “So… do I need another ring for the wedding day?” she asked.
It is a question many Ugandan brides and grooms are asking. As Western traditions continue to blend with Ugandan customs, engagement and wedding rings have taken centre stage in modern love stories. But what is the real difference between the two? And with the rising costs of weddings, is it necessary to have both?
Engagement ring: The promise of forever
An engagement ring is typically given during a proposal, a symbol of the promise to marry. In Uganda, this gesture is increasingly becoming a public spectacle. From surprise hotel dinners in Kampala to countryside setups complete with drone coverage, engagements have taken on a life of their own.
Traditionally, engagement rings are more ornate and can feature a single gemstone, often a diamond, set in gold or silver. While diamonds are popular, Ugandan jewellers now offer options using Moissanite, cubic zirconia, or even local stones to cut costs without compromising the sparkle.
“This ring tells the world I am taken,” says Milly, proudly flashing hers. “But also, it reminds me every day of the commitment we made.”
Wedding ring: A symbol of unity
Wedding rings, on the other hand, are exchanged during the wedding ceremony. In many Ugandan churches, especially Anglican and Catholic ones, this moment is sacred. The ring, usually a plain band of gold, silver, or platinum, is placed on the fourth finger of the left hand, symbolising eternal love.
Interestingly, Ugandan culture has its take. In traditional kwanjula ceremonies, the gifting of rings is not central; rather, it is the presentation of gifts, bride price, and family blessings that seal the union. Still, more couples are incorporating ring exchanges into both traditional and religious ceremonies for that symbolic continuity.
Do you need both?
The short answer? No, but it depends on your values and budget.
Many Ugandan couples, especially in rural areas or those with financial constraints, opt for just the wedding ring. Others, particularly in urban centres such as Kampala or Entebbe, embrace both for their emotional and aesthetic value.
“Some clients come in looking for a matching set, an engagement ring and two wedding bands,” says Isaac Mugisha, a jeweller in Kisementi. “Others just want a simple gold band that can serve both purposes.”
There is no right or wrong. Whether you choose one ring or two, what matters is the love, commitment, and intention behind it.
A growing trend: Custom and affordable
Ugandan couples are also redefining ring culture. From engraving names and wedding dates to sourcing locally crafted designs, personalisation is on the rise. Some couples even forgo expensive rings in favour of symbolic gestures such as gifts from the heart.
At the end of the day, your ring choices are as unique as your relationship. Whether you wear a dazzling engagement stone, a simple wedding band, or both, what counts is the love it represents.
So, do you need both? Only if you want them. After all, the ring is just a circle; the love it holds is infinite.
