18 May 2025

The Re-A-Nyalana Society continues to make significant strides in helping couples formalise marriages and empower them.

So far, since its inception in 2012, the society has helped over 7 000 couples formalise their marriages. On Friday, 11 couples tied the knot in a ceremony facilitated under the initiative in Hereford. The ceremony followed a pre-marriage workshop organised by the Tsabong District Commissioner’s office in collaboration with the Re-A-Nyalana founders.

Participants received education on the Marriage Act, adoption procedures, effective communication and conflict resolution skills and personal growth strategies essential for a successful partnership. 

The coordinator and founder of Re-A-Nyalana Society, Ms Annah Morwaagole said the initiative was established with the noble aim of assisting economically disadvantaged couples in formalising their relationships. She said it provided an affordable and streamlined process, making marriage accessible to those who might otherwise face financial barriers.

Ms Morwaagole, therefore said this highlights their vital role in strengthening families and communities across the nation. The Re-A-Nyalana stands as a testament to the commitment of community leaders and organisations in Botswana to support and uplift families, said Ms Morwaagole.

By providing accessible pathways to formal marriage and equipping couples with essential knowledge and skills, the initiative continues to foster stronger, more stable relationships and contribute positively to the social fabric of the nation, she added. 

She further emphasised that the success in Hereford served as another inspiring chapter in the ongoing journey of the initiative in bringing joy and legal recognition to countless couples.

Assistant District Commissioner, Ms Semakaleng Palai urged couples to thoroughly familiarise themselves with the Marriage Act. She also cautioned against entering into marriages in community of property without a clear understanding of its implications.

In many instances, Ms Palai highlighted that couples found themselves in abusive or dysfunctional marriages due to property disputes arising from a lack of knowledge about the legal framework. Furthermore, she stressed the importance of involving their children in discussions before making significant decisions regarding their properties.

One of the newly married individuals, Mr Modisiemang Motsemme expressed joy over formalising his long-standing relationship. The 63-year old lauded the Re-A-Nyalana Society for their invaluable assistance, stating that they had been a crucial support for couples who had been living together for many years without the financial means to marry.

“Today, I just paid P40 and I am legally married to my wife,” a jubilant Mr Motsemme shared.

“I am now a proud husband and I would be able to mix with other husbands and do the traditional activities,” he said.

He encouraged others to utilise the initiative emphasising its affordability and the swiftness of the process. ENDS