ABOLISH BOGADI

Assistant Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Ignatius Moswaane, has proposed the abolition of 'bogadi,' the traditional bride price, arguing that it prevents many Batswana from marrying due to the financial burden it places on couples. Speaking at the Re a Nyalana wedding celebrations in Dovedale, the Francistown West legislator said bogadi leaves couples in debt before their lives together even begin. He urged parents to be open-minded and allow weddings to proceed even when the groom cannot afford to pay the traditional fee. In an interview with The MidweekSun, Moswaane reiterated his position, stating that many couples cannot marry due to the financial pressure attached to bogadi.“There are men who clearly will never afford bogadi, but they still want to build families. We cannot continue to let this practice prevent people from settling down,” he said. He argued that marriage should be a launch-pad for building a life together, not an entry into debt.“After the wedding, people are deep in debt and cannot even afford to eat, that is the reality many couples face when the emphasis is placed on bogadi rather than on the union itself,” he said. Moswaane suggested that instead of demanding the bride price, families should consider giving the money or livestock back to the couple as a foundation for their new home. He gave a personal example: “If my children get married, I will return the bogadi to them to help them start life,” Moswaane said. The MP believes that in the absence of bogadi, cohabiting partners may find it easy to get married. This would reduce family disputes that arise when one partner passes away. Without formal marriage, he said, surviving partners often face resistance or exclusion from the deceased’s family. However, not everyone agrees with his stance.Bangwaketse Chief Representative, Kennedy Mookodi, curtly remarked, “Bogadi should never be abolished.”Traditionally, 'Bogadi' is viewed as a gesture of respect and appreciation, symbolising the union of two families. It is paid in cattle, but may also be given in cash or goods.Traditional leaders defending the practice argue that it reinforces family ties and shows appreciation to the bride’s family for raising her. However, critics say it has become commercialised and out ofreach for many, especially young men struggling financially. Outspoken pastor and social commentator Reverend Thuso Tiego concurs with Moswaane, arguing that many people remain unmarried due to the high cost of bogadi.“It is obvious traditional leaders will defend bogadi, but we have many people who want to marry and simply cannot afford it. I support the idea that it should be abolished,” Tiego said.

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ABOLISH BOGADI