KIRINYAGA, Kenya – Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru’s family was the centre of celebration over the weekend after her son, Don, formally united with his partner, Yvonne, in a traditional Kikuyu marriage ceremony, popularly known as Ngurario.
The colourful ceremony, attended by family, friends and a host of political leaders, marked a significant milestone for the couple as they formalised their union in accordance with Kikuyu customs ahead of their anticipated white wedding.
Sharing the news on her social media platforms, Governor Waiguru expressed gratitude and joy as she congratulated the newlyweds on the important cultural rite.
“Congratulations, our son Don, and our daughter Yvonne, on your Ngurario,” Waiguru wrote.
The governor described the occasion as one of the most memorable moments of her life as a parent, saying witnessing the couple commit to one another filled the family with immense happiness.
“Seeing you both come together in love and commitment fills our hearts with immense joy and gratitude. May the values that brought you here—love, respect, faith and kindness—continue to guide you,” she said.
Waiguru also warmly welcomed Yvonne into the family, expressing optimism about the journey ahead for the couple.
“We are blessed to have you, and we look forward to sharing this journey with you both. We love you dearly and look forward to the wedding,” she added.
The traditional ceremony drew several prominent political figures, reflecting Waiguru’s wide political networks across the country.
Among those in attendance were Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, Laikipia Woman Representative Jane Kagiri, Embu Governor Cecilia Mbarire, alongside women leaders Faith Wairimu Gitau, Lydia Haika and Irene Njoki, among other invited guests.
Photos shared from the ceremony captured vibrant displays of Kikuyu culture, with the bride and groom dressed in traditional attire as elders presided over customary rites before relatives and friends.
The Ngurario ceremony is one of the most significant rites in Kikuyu marriage traditions, symbolising the formal recognition of a couple’s union by both families and paving the way for subsequent wedding celebrations.
The ceremony concluded with traditional songs, dances and celebrations as guests joined the families in wishing Don and Yvonne a happy and prosperous married life.
