FXB Rwanda Facilitates Legal Marriage for 102 Families in Mageragere, Nyarugenge District, Promoting Equality and Responsible Families

Mageragere, Nyarugenge District — On Thursday, August 28, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved as 102 families in Mageragere sector formalized their unions through a legal civil marriage ceremony. Prior to this event, these families had been living together illegally, highlighting the ongoing challenges around legal recognition of marriage in the community.

The ceremony was organized as part of an initiative by FXB Rwanda aimed at fulfilling the principles of equality and complementarity within families. It brought together community members, local leaders, and representatives of FXB Rwanda, emphasizing the importance of lawful marriage for social cohesion and family stability.

In his speech, FXB Rwanda’s Executive Director Emmanuel Kayitana congratulated the newlyweds, stressing that: “Legal marriage safeguards family rights, protects children’s welfare, and fosters household harmony.”

He added that “FXB Rwanda will continue to support families through health promotion, education, hygiene & sanitation, and economic strengthening.”

Ingangare Alexis, Executive Secretary of Nyarugenge District, emphasized the benefits of living legally married:
“Getting married before the law provides many advantages. It ensures respect for rights and duties, enhances social recognition, and promotes peace within families. Living together legally establishes clear rights and responsibilities for both spouses, creating a foundation for healthy, peaceful coexistence.”

The event also served as an educational platform, encouraging additional couples to formalize their unions.

MP Kalisa Jean Sauveur, the Guest of Honor, delivered a powerful message urging citizens to consider legal marriage as a means of avoiding future conflicts and securing family rights:
“Legal marriage helps protect families. Although there are cases of divorce, the law prioritizes reconciliation and the best interests of children. Raising children in a stable environment with both parents is vital for their healthy development and the future of our nation. Healthy families are the backbone of a prosperous country.”

MP Kalisa Jean Sauveur, the Guest of Honor

He further warned against the pitfalls of unrecognized cohabitation, highlighting that without formal marriage, individuals cannot claim certain rights, including access to social services or legal protections. “Love should come first, but law and responsibility are essential for lasting happiness and stability,” he added.

Residents interviewed by this publication cited poverty, lack of attention, and social barriers as reasons for avoiding formal marriage. Authorities affirmed that these challenges should not be an obstacle to respecting the law or the well-being of families.

This initiative was a collaborative effort with FXB Rwanda, which has been actively involved in family education. Out of the 102 newlywed couples, approximately 70 are members of FXB Rwanda, having benefited from three days of targeted family education.

The swearing-in ceremony was officiated by Mr. Hategekimana Silas, the sector’s executive secretary, culminating in a fellowship that reinforced community bonds and shared commitments to family responsibility and legal recognition.

The event marks a vital step forward in fostering lawful, responsible, and resilient families, fueling a stronger and healthier community.