As part of efforts to combat polygamy and cohabitation, which remain prevalent in Uwinkingi sector of Nyamagabe district, the local authorities, in collaboration with local government entities, facilitated the legal marriage of 46 couples who had been living together without formalizing their unions.
Some of those who got married admitted that cohabiting without legal recognition had led to conflicts and misunderstandings in their families.
Munyentwari Vedaste, a resident of Uwinkingi Cell, explained that before getting married, his wife often distrusted him due to his drinking habits and late-night outings: “When I came home, my wife would accuse me of being with prostitutes. But since we got married, I feel respected and at peace at home. She told me she will no longer make those accusations.”
His wife, Uwihanganye Clementine, confirmed that much of their conflict stemmed from her husband neglecting his responsibilities:
“He used to drink a lot and treated me like a servant. I believed he was spending money on other women. But now we’ve both committed to change, and I feel we are living peacefully.” Sibongire Vedaste, who had lived with his wife for over 20 years without marrying her legally, said he used to feel ashamed among his peers:
“I felt embarrassed because I had children, yet on paper I was still considered single. I’m happy now because my children legally have recognized parents.” His wife, Nabinka Frodita, added that although they got married at an older age, it gives their children a legitimate family status recognized by the state.
Ntamuhoranye Emmanuel, who has been with Ingabire Alphonsine for a year, said they initially lived together without legal marriage, but later realized the benefits of formalizing their union: “We sat down and discussed it,and realized how important it was. Now we live in peace, and each of us knows our responsibilities.”
Furaha Guillaume, the Executive Secretary of Uwinkingi Sector, acknowledged that polygamy and cohabitation are still common in the area, but community education efforts are ongoing:
“Recently, we facilitated the legal marriage of 52 couples, and today, 46 more were added. We will continue awareness campaigns so that those who are not yet legally married can do so, as the lack of legal marriage often results in mistrust within families and contributes to poverty.” He also emphasized that legal marriage builds trust, peace, and promotes development in families.
Uwamariya Agnes, the Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs in Nyamagabe district, said the government supports initiatives aimed at helping cohabiting couples get legally married, as it promotes the dignity of women within the family: “When a woman is valued, the household thrives. Legal marriage fosters trust and gender equality between spouses.”
Polygamy and cohabitation have been identified as barriers to family development, with negative impacts on children and overall community progress. Continued collaboration between local authorities and residents aims to make Uwinkingi a model for changing such mindsets.
Story by Venuste Habineza