BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI– The establishment of the Council of Marriage Officers in Eswatini marks a new chapter in efforts to promote professionalism, accountability and the dignity of marriage officers across the country.
The Council has been established as a voluntary, non-profit, non-political and non-sectarian professional body operating within the laws of Eswatini. According to its Constitution, the Council seeks to bring marriage officers under a unified professional body that will support, regulate and represent them while upholding the sanctity and integrity of marriage in the country.
The Constitution recognises marriage as both a civil and cultural institution, while acknowledging the importance of Swazi customs and faith traditions. Through its establishment, the Council aims to strengthen the role of marriage officers in serving the nation.
The Council’s vision is to establish a unified, professional and legally compliant body of marriage officers that upholds the sanctity and integrity of marriage in Eswatini. Its mission is to organise, regulate, support and represent marriage officers through collaboration with Government and other stakeholders.
Among its key objectives is the establishment of a national regulatory and representative body for marriage officers. The Council will also promote ethical and professional standards, facilitate registration and coordination, and strengthen accountability among marriage officers. The Constitution further provides for training and capacity building to help marriage officers strengthen their knowledge and professional capabilities.
Dr. Ntandoyenkosi Mlangeni said another important area of the Council’s work would be collaboration with the Government of Eswatini on marriage-related policies. He said this would support compliance with national laws and contribute to the proper regulation of marriage officers.
Mlangeni said the Council would work closely with relevant Government ministries, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs, to ensure that its operations remain aligned with national legislation. He added that the Council would also seek to protect the dignity and legal integrity of marriages conducted in the country. He also said that membership of the Council would be open to legally recognised marriage officers in Eswatini and individuals authorised under relevant laws to solemnise marriages.
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