What is the process of lobola?
For centuries, the Nguni tribes of Southern Africa have practiced lobola — paying a bride price to ensure a union between two tribes, similar to the dowry’s of Western Civilization. With one exception — lobola is paid in cows, and is paid to the bride’s family.
What happens during the lobola ceremony?
The moment the final lobola price is agreed upon, the uncles of the groom would meet with the family of the bride and arrange for the payment. After that is done, the groom becomes a part of the bride’s family, and a party would be thrown.
What happens after lobola has been paid?
Lobola cannot be paid in full in one go, the groom’s delegation will need to come again after the first negotiations to finish paying for their bride to be. Once the Lobola has been paid in full then the next step follows which is called Izibizo, which can happen on the day when lobola negotiations are concluded.
How many cows are in a lobola?
10 cows
“The payment of 10 cows — plus one for the mother of the bride — was formalised only in the former colony of Natal, where this has been maintained as the typical payment in Zulu marriage.
How much is lobola in Xhosa?
about 6 cattle
Lobola (“bridal price”) The lobola process is when the groom-to-be along with his family pay a certain amount of money to the bride’s family in order to obtain the right to marry their daughter. Traditionally lobola is amounted to about 6 cattle – depending on the bride’s family’s request.
How much does lobola cost?
It has become the norm for families to charge at least R60 000 for lobola, which history Professor Jabulani Maphalala, who is also a former lecturer at the University of Zululand, has argued should never be the case.
What comes first between lobola and engagement?
This means that for them; the proposal/engagement comes before the “vula mlomo” (the proposer’s introduction and request for blessings from the families to marry the “proposee“).
Can lobola be refunded?
A claim for refund of lobola, paid under our Customary Law, has never been tested in our legal system. The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act 120 of 1998 (RCMA) and case law can give an insight into probable legal position though.
Are you married after paying lobola?
Jacob Ntshangase, a cultural expert and former cultural advisor for Isibaya, says when lobola has been paid then the couple is considered to be married for all intents and purposes. “Though there are other ceremonies that have to be done to complete the process in its entirety, a woman is considered a wife.
How much does a cow cost for lobola?
It is generally accepted that a minimum of 10 cows, or their cash equivalent, is a good starting point in the lobola discussions. According to the Nguni Cattle Breeders Society, a cow costs, on average, R9 000.
Who gets the lobola money?
The giving of lobolo is agreed to between the two families of the couple (the future husband and wife). Cattle was traditionally given as lobolo, but money or other gifts can also be given.