The Traditional Bashi Wedding

´As we embark on this beautiful journey together, we want to share the rich traditions that make our union so special. Our wedding is not just about the two of us—it is a celebration of love, family, and heritage`.

Two Cultures, One Love 

Tafadzwa comes from the Shona tribe of Zimbabwe, while Jenny belongs to the Bashi tribe of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In both cultures, it is custom for the traditional wedding to be conducted according to the brides’ tradition. That is why this traditional wedding will be a Bashi celebration, honoring the customs of Jenny’s ancestors and bringing both of their families together in a meaningful and beautiful way.

A Tradition of Love and Unity

Among the Bashi people of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, marriage is more than just a union between two individuals—it is a sacred bond that unites families, strengthens communities, and upholds cultural traditions passed down through generations. 

More Than Just a Wedding—A Unifying Bond  

For the Bashi people, marriage is a foundation for strong family ties, friendship, and lasting alliances. It is a celebration of unity, ensuring that both families remain connected through shared values and traditions and ensuring that the couple’s love story is built on a strong and cherished foundation. 

The wedding is not only a personal milestone but a communal event, where relatives, neighbors, and friends gather to witness and honor the sacred commitment being made. 

Central to this tradition is the dowry, or ngulo—a gift from the groom’s family to the bride’s family, typically consisting of cattle, a symbol of prosperity and continuity. This is not a commercial transaction but rather a gesture of goodwill, gratitude, and appreciation for the new bond being formed. 

The Dowry Process: Steps to Marriage

Traditional Bashi marriage is a process that begins with two people and ultimately encompasses both families. The marriage follows a well-structured process, ensuring that the union is recognized and celebrated by both families. The key stages include: 

1. Meeting and courtship – The young lady and young man meet, fall in love, build  their relationship, and decide to marry.

2. Announcement to the young lady’s family – The young lady informs her family about her chosen partner, allowing them to prepare for the marriage discussions.

3. First visit to the young lady’s family – The young man visits the young lady’s family to formally express his interest in marriage. This is known as the "presentation visit." and marks the official engagement of the couple. 

4. Parental introduction and dowry proposal – The fiancé’s  family returns for a formal introduction, where they present their dowry proposal (ngulo), often consisting of cattle (cows and goats) and other symbolic gifts.

5. Dowry negotiations and agreement – At this stage, both families agree on the dowry. This exchange is balanced and meaningful ensuring that their union is based on mutual respect and understanding. All agreements are made on the basis of trust and are verbal, because for the Bashi “a man is his word”.