What happens to the lobola money?

What happens to the lobola money?

What happens after lobola negotiations? 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.

How much does a lobola cost?

According to the Nguni Cattle Breeders Society, a cow costs, on average, R9 000. So assuming that the bride’s and groom’s families agree on 10 cows, the groom’s family will have to pay lobola of R90 000.

How many cows are in a lobola?

“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.

What is the importance of paying lobola?

Lobola has a particular cultural significance,” he says. According to Mbuyiselo, the most important reason for it is making sure that families come together as one. “People should look at lobola in its purest form, which is making sure that the families come together without it being misconstrued,” he adds.

Is lobola still relevant?

However, many still value the payment of lobola and believe it’s a necessary practice in African culture. “Paying lobola is extremely important because it not only joins you and your spouse together but your families and ancestors as well. Lobola creates strong bonds among families. It’s a promise before God.

What is the bride price?

Bride Price is when the family of the groom pay their future in-laws at the start of their marriage. The payment can be made up of money, presents, or a mixture of both. It’s sometimes paid in one go, but instalments aren’t uncommon. It’s also practised widely in Thailand, China, and Papua New Guinea.

Can lobola be returned?

According to Gugu Mkhize, a cultural expert who spoke to HuffingPost, a man is not forced to pay lobola, it is a gift of appreciation to the woman’s parents and an opportunity to unite the two new families. Therefore, “when lobola is paid, so to speak culturally, that’s it. It’s not refundable,” she says.