108 couples in Kayonza District on Friday took part in a mass civil wedding jointly organised by non governmental organisation (NGO) Women for Women International and the district. They were greeted by families, friends, and local leaders who came to share in the festivities. “I am now expecting to live in harmony with my husband. I will, from now on, be protected by the laws,” said Nadia Muhoracyeye after legalising her marriage. She said that she and her husband have resolved to abide by the laws for the wellbeing of their family. The Executive Secretary of Rukara Sector, Gervais Ntirenganya, said that a healthy relationship requires knowing the skills necessary for “friendly fighting” dealing with conflict respectfully and working together to find a workable solution. “Knowing when to apologise and how to forgive are important issues in marriage.,” he advised the couples. According to Violet Kabarenzi in charge of life skills and sponsorship at Women for Women International (WFWI) in Rwanda, the organisation’s aim is to fight against abuse of any kind for the poor, illiterate, or marginalised people. The overall goal is to build a society where members of communities have full and equal participation in the processes that ensure their health, well-being and economic independence, Kabarenzi said.
