With such a young population, it is not surprising that so many marriages are happening. Emmanuel, who has been such a great host, invited me to another dowry event, this time at his home. A young lady reside with him during university. As her father is not longer here, Emmanuel acted as the father in the 'negotiations' for the marriage. He was very eloquent as he 'aruged' with the groom's father.
There is a great deal of humour on the process. Each party pretends that this is a big business negotiation and it is questionable as to the future outcome. In this case, the wedding would be the next day, and I bet it was pretty assured that the event would occur! There is fun and laughter in the the speeches as each father argues.
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| The brother is presenting an obstacle to the groom until he also gets a payment |
The dowry is more than just a presentation of valuables from the groom to the bride. It is about two families committing to being related; it is about their commitment to working together as joint families. I think that there are parts to these commitments that we have lost in our culture.
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| The couple drinking Banana wine |
There is also a commitment to sharing different forms of beverages. Guests are served Fanta/Cola/Beer. Through the ceremony, there is a (editorial note: Disgusting) fermented beer sipped through a straw, a banana wine which was lovely, and wine for the dignitaries.
I have been so gifted to attend two dowries.
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| Emmanuel speaking on behaof of the bride's family. The power had gone out! |
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| Dancers celebrate the event |
