Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere-Senior Reporter
ACTING President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has urged young couples to uphold the sanctity of marriage, describing it as a lifelong covenant rooted in love, faith and commitment, and called on families to remain united through both challenges and triumphs.
Dr Chiwenga made the remarks yesterday in Harare at the wedding ceremony of his nephew, Mr David Tafadzwa Machekabuwe, who tied the knot with Ms Ratanang Noko.
Addressing guests at the ceremony, the Acting President said marriage is more than a contractual arrangement, but rather a sacred union that demands patience, sacrifice and mutual support.
“Today, we witness not just the joining of two individuals, but the intertwining of two families, two histories and two destinies, all merging into one bright future,” he said.
“Marriage is one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity, an enduring covenant, not simply a contract. To our newlyweds, be each other’s strength in times of weakness. Celebrate your joys together; comfort one another in sorrow and stand united through thick and thin, in both good times and bad.”
Dr Chiwenga counselled the couple and other young people to build marriages anchored in love, trust, open communication and mutual respect, adding that forgiveness and daily acts of kindness are essential in sustaining strong family foundations. He encouraged couples to cultivate supportive relationships within their communities and extended families, saying strong marriages contribute to social cohesion and national development.
“Create a home that is warm, welcoming and filled with joy. Marriage, much like life, will have its ups and downs. You will experience seasons of sunshine and seasons of storms,” he said.
“Always remember, with Christ at the centre of your marriage, no challenge is insurmountable.”
He also took time to honour families of the newlyweds, acknowledging their role in nurturing and guiding the couple.
Mr Machekabuwe is the son of the late Mrs Margaret Machekabuwe, Dr Chiwenga’s sister, who is remembered within the family for supporting the Acting President during his formative years, including a symbolic moment when she collected his belongings from Mount St Mary’s Mission after he chose to leave formal education to join the liberation struggle.
Dr Chiwenga described marriage as a journey rather than a destination, urging the couple to build a lasting legacy grounded in faith and shared purpose.
“David and Ratanang, I wish you both a long life together filled with laughter, peace and prosperity.
“May your marriage be a testament to God’s goodness, a beacon of hope to others and a source of joy to all who know you,” he said.
