Chiefs certified as marriage officers
TRADITIONAL chiefs have been trained and certified as marriage officers for customary unions, but will not handle divorces which remain the preserve of the higher courts, the Government has said.
Traditional chiefs were yesterday certified as legal marriage officers for customary unions after completing an intensive twoday training programme on marriage and inheritance regulations and procedures in Bulawayo. The chief ’s mandate now encompasses monitoring and preventing child marriages and supervising the distribution of inheritance.
The National Council of Chiefs in conjunction with the Ministries of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, and of Local Government and Public Works organised the workshop to equip chiefs with knowledge and skills to provide efficient service.
In conducting marriage ceremonies, chiefs are only allowed to solemnise customary unions within their area of jurisdiction.
In his address, the acting deputy chairperson for the Law Development Commission, Mr Rex Shana, said as custodians of the law, chiefs must also enforce and promote harmony in unions.
“Chiefs are marriage officers and not divorce officers. They are not allowed to conduct or oversee any divorce matters, as this is the duty of the courts. This is by the laws of Zimbabwe. In the same light, even the same magistrate who solemnises a couple is not allowed to be involved in their divorces and this is why these matters are taken to higher courts,” said Mr Shana.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, who was represented by his deputy Mr Norbet Mazunguye, said the workshop marked a significant stage in the country’s mission concerning the intricate issues surrounding marriages and inheritance in Zimbabwe.
“In many communities across Zimbabwe, chiefs serve as custodians of tradition, culture, and governance, wielding significant influence and authority within their respective domains,” he said.
“It is, therefore, fitting that we recognise their invaluable contribution to our society and empower them to play a more active role in the marriage process.
“I am pleased to certify the chiefs as marriage officers under Section 9 (1) of the Marriages Act. The provision says ‘every chief shall, by his or her office and so long as he or she holds such office, be a marriage officer for a customary law marriage in the district in which he or she holds office’,” said Minister Ziyambi.
He said the designation acknowledged the vital role that chiefs played in the community and formalised their authority to solemnise marriages according to customary rites.
Minister Ziyambi said granting chiefs the official status would enhance their capacity to uphold the principles of consent, equality, and justice in the marriage process, thereby promoting harmonious relationships and strengthening the social fabric of our nation.
“Furthermore, this underscores our commitment to fostering collaboration and partnership between traditional leaders and Government institutions,” he added.
“By working together with mutual respect and cooperation, we can leverage the unique strengths and insights of both parties to address the complex challenges facing our society and promote sustainable development and prosperity for all.” Minister Ziyambi said marriages were the foundation of family and community structures and held immense significance.