Wedding Rituals
A
rent - center on the combining of two
families.
ring matrimony is in a powerful position, because she can be the mother of a chief or a warrior. That is why the Zulus of South African call the mother "the big house."
The Gabra Nomads of Northern Kenya say that "a man without a
wife is a man without a house." The creation of the new house is significant to their
bride's village and rebuilds it there.
In Ghana, the Asante male who is interested in a
woman must "knock on the door." That means his mother and mother's brother will go to the girl's
family and propose
marriage.
Another element to consider when reviewing African culture is polygamy. Polygamy is widely accepted as a lifestyle in Africa.
And, because Africa is so diverse, specific
ceremonies.
Once the
families agree on the
couple's suitability, the
gift among the Nyaweziz in East Africa and the Fulanis in West Africa.
The
bride also undergoes a "rite of passage." "This is a time when she will be initiated by the musukebba (female elders)" Nyang says. "These
women tell her what to expect and help orient her about the realities of
married life."
Among the Mande
people it is common for young girls between the ages of 12 and 18 to attend clitoridectomy (circumcision) schools to learn the art of being a
wife. Du
ring this time, they learn secret codes and languages to help them communicate with other
married women, should the need arise.
Before the
gifts.
The
weddings would involve the entire community with lots of food and dance. The
couple will celebrate several weeks after consummating their
wedding for these cultures.
Today, in general, African
band wife through a situation similar to our common law arrangement."
Mr. Pipin attributes this to overpopulation and western influences.
"Old and new
weddings and customs are changing...adjusting," agrees Nyang.
*Reprinted from
magazine 
