In a world where marital commitment often wanes, the enduring love story of Jotham Manomano Nyaungwa and Rudo Mataranyika stands out as a shining example. The couple, who wed in a modest ceremony in Rusape, Manicaland province, Zimbabwe, back in 1962, have celebrated an astonishing 61 years together.
Their wedding, a local affair far from the global spotlight, has blossomed into a deep, lifelong bond that has withstood the test of time. Nyaungwa, then 28, and Mataranyika, 20, tied the knot in a humble ceremony attended by villagers from Rukweza and Mupambawashe, setting off on a journey of love and partnership.
“Getting her was no easy feat. I had to be at my best to win her over,” Nyaungwa recalls fondly. “It was the best decision of my life.”
Fast forward to the present day, and the couple resides in Rydale Ridge Park, near Harare. Their home, nestled in a lush green yard with rows of maize and a beautifully manicured lawn, is a testament to their love for each other and their life together.
In an era where divorce cases flood the courts, the Nyaungwas’ story is one of resilience and commitment. They have faced challenges, including the hardships of life under colonial rule and the economic strains of raising a family on a meager income.
According to a report by Newsday, Nyaungwa, a former builder, remembers the tough times under colonialism and the toll it took on many marriages. Yet, their union remained unshakable, underpinned by mutual respect and faithfulness. The couple had seven children, two of whom have passed away.
Their daughter Sylvia speaks of the lessons learned from her parents, particularly her mother’s strength and resourcefulness in managing their rural home. “Our mother would manage everything at our rural home… That has helped me to be a better wife,” she says.
The Nyaungwas emphasize that marriage is not always easy, but unity and mutual support are key to overcoming challenges. “In our early years in marriage, we sometimes struggled, but we supported each other in everything,” Sekuru Nyaungwa explains.
Their story is also one of faith and values. As devout Seventh-Day Adventists, they credit their faith with guiding them through life’s journey. Their children, successful in various professions, have inherited their parents’ principles of love, respect, and commitment.
In a time where marriages often struggle to endure, the Nyaungwas stand as a beacon of hope and an example of the power of enduring love.
