Reject women’s pleas to abolish lobola – Chief

The Herald, July 19, 1996

CHIEF Makoni, a non-constituency MP, on Wednesday urged Parliament to reject calls by some Zimbabwean women to have lobola abolished.

Debating a motion on “Culture and Tradition”, Chief Makoni said lobola was part of Zimbabwean culture and tradition, which could not easily be done away with.

“If we remove the lobola (roora), we will be cursing our women. We will be insulting and denigrating them to dogs.

“We should refuse to accede to their demands by maintaining lobola,” said Chief Makoni.

He said he was horrified by people, especially women, who he accused of abandoning their African culture in favour of foreign cultures.

Chiefs, as the custodians of tradition and culture were totally opposed to the abolition of lobola.

Chief Makoni said there was need for the restoration of the chiefs’ powers as well as a re-orientation of Zimbabweans on the local culture and tradition.

Lessons for today

◆ Although culture is dynamic, it doesn’t mean doing away with important pratices that set us apart from people of other regions. Zimbabwe’s roora/ lobola (bride price) register has its own unique elements.

◆Lobola should not be abolished, but the amounts paid should be regulated.

◆Lobola has been abused by certain people and the end result is that there has been no respect for women, as some men and their families commoditise these women.

◆ Women’s organisations and churches should play leading roles in educating the nation on its culture and traditions.