Chronicle Editor
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
ZIMBABWEAN citizens who wish to marry abroad may be having a hard time accessing certificates of non-marriage as the Registrar Generals office is having challenges with the computerised system which has seen the slow issuance of the vital documents.
A non-marriage certificate is a document issued via the RG’s office from the Registrar of Marriages confirming a person’s marital status. It is usually required where a Zimbabwean national intends to marry abroad or where a Zimbabwean intends to marry a foreigner in Zimbabwe.
The document is sometimes referred to as a Certificate of Freedom to Marry or a Certificate of No Impediment. The Registrar General Mr Henry Machiri acknowledged that there was a challenge with their computerised system.
“Yes, it is true that we have been having challenges with our computerised system that issues these certificates but we have not stopped issuing them. We have been using other ways and means of ensuring citizens get these documents as they prepare for their marriages. The system is the same one for accessing passports, birth certificates, and these non-marriage certificates,” he said.
He said however, that those that were in need of birth certificates were accessing them manually and are still able to use them while they wait for the electronic version when the system improves.
He further said the RGs office was working flat out to get the system up and running and return business to a smooth flow. Mr Machiri also said the information had been disseminated to the provinces as to how those in need of the non-marriage certificates were to be assisted.
“Provincial Registrars dotted around the country know what to do when the system is having challenges like the current situation, we engaged them in a three-day workshop where all this was discussed and taught to them so they are aware of how to handle the situation. If there is any office that refuses to assist then we can take it further and see how the public can be assisted moving forward to get the documents they require,” he said.
Mr Machiri said a non-marriage certificate was a requirement not only for Zimbabwean nationals who wish to marry foreigners but a worldwide phenomenon.
Mr Machiri said this worldwide system had helped in ensuring that people do not get duped as they enter marriages.
Online Reporter