parental responsbility

Every parents dream is to see their children marry off and have successful relationships. in the traditional African set up, it was the man who initiates and pays for the dowry. the fact that this custom has not been abolished is a clear sign that it is of great importance and significance. however, like many other practices, it has been faced with gross misconduct and abuse in the recent times.

Dowry is a way of thanks giving and not an investment as viewed by some elderly parents. for the record, i want to say this.... you cannot and can never buy another human being. many girls are loosing out on prospective husbands due to greedy parents. take for example Kijo, her man could not raise the over half a million price and despite having paid 'mwati and harika' it was rejected. another example is Elizabeth whose boyfriend drove off in range after 'wazees fines, lateness fine, lack of song fine, etc got over two hundred thousand yet the actual negotiations had not yet began.

On the other hand it's culturally unacceptable for a man to live with a woman he has not paid dowry for. i know life is challenging this days but at least make the effort to inform the parents that you have their daughter. it shows you respect them and will bless you greatly.

Dedicated to all parents in the village. whats your understanding of the dowry negotiations? have a blessed day.