Prince Maele, the Minister of Higher Education in Botswana, addressed a mass wedding ceremony in Ukhwi on October 16 to defend the legal standing of the Re A Nyalana marriage initiative. According to AllAfrica, the minister urged the public to respect these unions, arguing that they possess the same legal rights and dignity as other marriages recognised by law. The ceremony, held under the Office of the District Commissioner, saw ten couples solemnised as part of the programme.
Maele responded to public criticism that characterised the initiative as cheap or a marriage of handouts. He explained that financial constraints often delay traditional weddings, making the government programme essential for couples seeking to formalise their relationships without excessive expense. The minister noted that the Re A Nyalana initiative was introduced specifically to assist financially disadvantaged couples in securing their legal status with dignity.
The minister also addressed the prevalence of cohabitation, warning that couples living together without formal marriage often face recognition issues, particularly from the families of male partners. He cautioned that cohabiting couples risk losing property when a partner passes away, whereas legally married couples are protected by law. To illustrate the programme's success, Maele reported that Re A Nyalana has facilitated 7,932 marriages since its inception, with no recorded divorces to date.
During the keynote address, the minister also warned the newlyweds about gender-based violence, describing it as a growing challenge in local communities. He encouraged the couples to maintain their commitment to the programme's oath. To support the new families, Maele donated 12 blankets and toys, while Reason Lekutlane, the area Member of Parliament, provided wedding rings for all ten couples.
Kgosi Olebile Oatlhotse of Ukhwi, the local chief, thanked the community for their participation in the initiative. He expressed hope for increased registrations in the coming year and urged residents to remain confident in the programme despite external criticism. The event highlighted the government's ongoing effort to provide a structured, cost-effective pathway for marriage in Botswana.