Married Kenyan men who have not duly paid their dowry have been challenged to do so as a sign of respect and appreciation to the families of their wives.
According to Trans Nzoia County Commissioner, Sam Ojwang’, failing to pay dowry may be considered theft and lack of respect culturally.
Speaking at Kitale National Museum in a consultative meeting with Bukusu Council of Elders who are in the process of setting up a tribunal court, Ojwang' said it is shocking that some married men have sired children with their wives and have not paid even a penny for dowry.
“Some men have become like thieves. They marry but don't pay dowry. Such a behavior is not good in African culture,” Ojwang’ said.
Ojwang’ added that dowry payment is the only way of appreciating and respecting wives’ parents for their parenting role.
“The Bible says he who gets a wife finds a good thing and gains favour from God, however some men fail to recognize the good things in their wives,” he added.
This is a matter that has drawn the attention of the elders who say they will consider such matters in their courts.
Bukusu Council of Elders Chairperson Peter Masinde said there is a worrying trend where young men marry their daughters and fail to pay what is expected of them by their culture.
“Family is a very important institution that should be accorded utmost respect. We are here to remind young men that marrying our daughters comes with a price. Please pay the price” Masinde said.
The county commissioner promised to support the elders in establishing the Bukusu Tribunal Court arguing that matters related to dowry and other petty offences can be handled best by tribunal courts.
Dowry is an ancient tradition found across cultures and religions. The amount of dowry paid depends on the culture and other factors such as class or income. The dowry can be in the form of cash, jewellery, furniture, property, vehicle, or livestock.
In Bukusu community, one is required to pay 13 cows, a goat for the bride’s aunt, some negotiable amount of money for the brides’ father and mother, a pair of coats, gumboots, a hat and a club for the bride’s father.
