What you Need to Know Before you Marry from Namibia – Marriage Culture

Marriage customs in Namibia are as varied as the country’s many different ethnic groupings. For instance, the Ovambo engage in a sort of arranged marriage in which the parents of the bride and groom work out the stipulations of the union. When it comes to the Herero, however, the custom of “Ehi Rovisa” dictates that the husband must pay a bride price to the bride’s family.

The Damara culture has a special marriage custom in which the prospective husband must earn the approval of the bride’s family by completing a series of challenges. The Nama also have a bride price system, however it is less rigid than the Herero’s. When it comes to marriage, the San are more lenient, allowing unmarried partners to cohabitate.

The marital customs of the Baster people, who are themselves of mixed European and African ancestry, reflect both of these traditions. A traditional African wedding ceremony follows the church service.

There are certain commonalities as well as variances between the marriage customs of Namibia’s various ethnic groupings. Marriage, for instance, is highly valued in many societies because it helps couples form closer bonds within their families and fosters friendships across clans. The importance of having children in a marriage is also highly valued in many cultural traditions.

In sum, marriage customs in Namibia are as varied as the country’s many ethnic groupings. The value put on families and young children is consistent throughout cultures, despite obvious variances in norms and practices.