Africa-Press – Eswatini. Marriage officers and the Ministry of Home Affairs met at Emlalatini Development Centre in Ezulwini to reflect on the role of marriage counselling in supporting stable relationships across Eswatini during a session held on March 26, 2026. The engagement brought together officials and officers to assess current practices and explore ways of improving guidance offered to couples.
The discussion focused on three key areas: what qualifies a person to become a marriage officer, whether those already registered are effectively carrying out their duties, and what systems can be introduced to strengthen their work. Concerns were raised about individuals allegedly operating without proper certification, with calls for tighter regulation to protect the integrity of marriage services.
Participants emphasized that marriage officers carry a responsibility that goes beyond officiating unions, highlighting the need for strong ethical values and a clear understanding of marriage as a foundation for families and communities. The conversation also touched on the importance of maturity among couples entering marriage, with suggestions that better guidance could help reduce early relationship breakdowns.
The Ministry of Home Affairs indicated plans to improve oversight through proper registration of marriage officers and stronger coordination structures. Consideration was also given to forming an association to support professional standards and continuous development within the sector. Officials noted that divorce remains a legal process handled by the courts, while acknowledging that counselling practices play a role in shaping marital outcomes, including in religious settings.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen counselling systems, improve service delivery, and support healthier family relationships in Eswatini.
