Media personality Dennis Okari recently shared the reasons behind his decision not to pay dowry for his wife, Naomi Joy, shedding light on their unique and unconventional marriage.
During a gathering at Jubilee Christian Church (JCC) called Daughters of Zion (DOZ), Okari candidly revealed that he and Naomi made a mutual choice not to exchange dowry.
Explaining his perspective, Okari expressed his financial limitations at the time and his honest conversation with Naomi about it. He said, "I never paid dowry. When you enter into marriage, you learn that it's like a transaction. My wife and I sat down, and I told her, 'this is the money I have in my account. If your uncles want to charge me 10 cows and other things, I don't have that kind of money. So I'm going to give you a wedding, take you to a nice place for the honeymoon, and get you a house. But for now, I don't have this kind of money.'"
Okari further shared that Naomi took the initiative to speak with her mother, requesting that no dowry be demanded from him. The decision showcased their shared understanding and commitment to their relationship.
Recalling his visit to Naomi's family, Okari expressed his surprise when they expressed that they expected "nothing" as dowry. Overjoyed by their response, he stated, "'You're the luckiest human being on earth. They didn't ask for anything.'"
As a gesture of appreciation to his wife's family, Okari made a promise to do something special for Naomi's mother. True to his word, a year later, he built her a new three-bedroom bungalow.
During the gathering, Kathy Kiuna also emphasized the significance of open communication in resolving misunderstandings within a marriage. She encouraged seeking help and professional guidance, expressing that a toxic marriage can be healed if both parties are willing to work on it.
While Okari's decision not to pay dowry may be unconventional, it highlights the importance of open dialogue, understanding, and finding alternative ways to honor and appreciate one's spouse and their family.