Wajir elders slash wedding costs to ease burden on young couples

Sheikh Mahbub Abdi reading the resolutions./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Ali Aden, a religious leader in Wajir, speaking at an event./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Abdinoor Disow, a resident  of Lagbohol in Wajir, speaking at the event./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

In a landmark cultural reform, elders and religious leaders from the Ogaden, Ajuran and Degodia communities in Lagbogol, Wajir county, have unveiled new wedding guidelines.

The move is aimed at ending crippling expenses for young couples. 

After a three-day consultation, Sheikh Mahbub Abdi announced resolutions to preserve the cultural and religious value of marriage, while making it affordable. 

The new rules fix the bride price at Sh60,000, shared equally by both families. 

Dowry after divorce (mahr) will be capped at one camel, one cow, or eight goats, with gold and dollar payments discouraged. 

Extravagances—from khat distribution and lavish tent hire to wedding convoys—are banned. Brides must be escorted to their new homes in a single vehicle by 8:30 pm and no more than one camel may be slaughtered for the feast. 

A Sh50,000 penalty awaits those who flout the rules. 

The changes have been met with applause from youth, who say this will remove a major obstacle to marriage. 

“This proves our elders truly care about our future,” Mohamed Hussein said. 

Many youth also hailed the move as a step towards fairness, dignity and stronger family bonds.