By Elimu Assistant Team 
Why marriage in traditional African communities is regarded as a covenant.
- Should be permanent /breaking of the marriage had serious consequences
- It binds/the couple/family /clans all who were separated before
- Ceremonies are conducted where the concerned couple/family/clan take vows promising loyalty to each other.
- Exchange of gifts/as a sign of a lasting relationship/cements the relationship
- Certain conditions have to be fulfilled such as payment of dowry/bearing of children
- Gods/spirits are evoked to bless and protect the marriage/prayers are offered to God
- There are witnesses i.e. families/friends
- There is sharing of a meal/ceremony to express unity/friendship
