150 couples solemnised their marriages in a vibrant Muslim mass wedding held at the Serani Sports Grounds in Mombasa. The event, organised by the Mama Beauty Foundation, saw brides dressed in traditional black buibuis and bridegrooms in white kanzus, all united in their solemn vows under the scorching sun.
The grand ceremony was officiated by Sheikh Omar Buya, who stood in for the Chief Kadhi, unable to attend due to a work emergency. The air was filled with joyous ululations as the couples exchanged vows, marking the beginning of their new lives together.
The mass wedding was preceded by premarital counselling, a crucial step in preparing the couples for marriage. The organisers emphasised the importance of adequate preparation, as many divorce cases are attributed to the lack of proper guidance before entering into matrimony. The couples were taught valuable skills in communication, conflict resolution, and patience, all of which are vital for sustaining a healthy marriage.
Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, who was present at the ceremony, took the opportunity to address some of the challenges that come with marriage, particularly in relation to dowry demands. She urged the families of the brides to reconsider outdated cultural practices that hinder marriage, especially in light of the current tough economic climate. According to Islamic teachings, she noted, dowry should be determined by the bride herself, but many families have taken over this role, inflating the dowry demands.
The MP highlighted the negative impact of exorbitant dowries, noting that they contribute to premarital pregnancies and fornication. She also questioned the expectation that young men must have a stable income before getting married, urging a shift in this mindset.
Lubna Nassir, the founder of Mama Beauty Foundation, expressed the organisation’s commitment to reducing fornication by encouraging the youth to solemnise their marriages. She explained that the high cost of dowries and a lack of knowledge about proper marriage procedures often drive young people into informal unions or “come we-stay” relationships. By educating the couples and providing an opportunity for a formal wedding, the foundation hopes to help prevent such issues.
Nassir also expressed a desire to see the mass wedding become a quarterly event, urging more leaders and organisations to join in supporting this noble cause. With such community-driven initiatives, the foundation hopes to continue making a significant impact on the lives of the youth, promoting the values of marriage and reducing the prevalence of fornication.
