A customary marriage is potentially polygamous. This means that a man can marry as many wives as he wishes under the customary norms and practices of his area. However, he must fulfil each woman’s customary requirements.

• The marriage is entered into by an offer and an acceptance, which is reached through the mutual consent of the husband or his representative and the guardian or representative of the bride in the presence of two witnesses, usually in a ceremonial gathering.
• The man and woman’s “wali” (a male trustee) and at least two witnesses must be present at the ceremony.
• The ceremony is usually performed before a “mwalimu” either at home or in a mosque.