• Both the man and woman must be single at the time of the marriage. In other words, none of them should be any existing marriage which is recognised under the law.
• The man and woman must not have close blood relations with each other because they do, this will be incest which is a criminal offence punishable under the law.
• Both parties must be above 18 years of age. If they are below 21 but above 18 years, they must seek the consent of their parents or guardians to marry.

Children, whether born in wedlock or out of wedlock, are recognised as children under the law and they are equal. Both girls and boys have an equal share in the property of a deceased parent.

• This type of marriage is conducted by the chief administrative officer or the registrar of marriage in the ministry of justice.
• It is a monogamous marriage of one man and one woman.
• The essential requirements are similar to those under the church marriages.
• It is important to note that this marriage is not a contract and therefore it is binding for life.