Sheria house has suspended services that enabled Kenyans to exchange their marital vows legally after the number of people flocking the Attorney general’s office to get married has become overwhelming making it difficult to observe the Ministry of Health guidelines.
The marriage services have been suspended in Nairobi over the fear of COVID-19 as it has become difficult to ensure social distancing given the big numbers two days after the offices opened.
“It was observed that the number of clients who visited Sheria House seeking the same was overwhelming and went against the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health in curbing the spread of COVID-19 virus,” Registrar General Mary Njuya said in a statement.
The Registrar General notes that marriage services will remain suspended until further notice as the AG’s office seeks sufficient time to develop safety measures in line with the Ministry of Health directive.
“This is to further ensure that safety measures are undertaken in the workplace.”
The Registrar General has further apologized for any inconvenience caused and assured Kenyans seeking the marriage services that they are working to ensure the prompt resumption of the services while ensuring safety for everyone.
“We will communicate upon resumption of services,” Mary Njuya added.
A couple in Kenya is required to register for marriage by submitting copies of identification cards and coloured passport size photos (for both parties) and 600 shillings which is normally followed by a notice that runs for 21 days in case anyone has sufficient reasons why the couple should not be married.
The couple is expected to pay 3,300 shillings in the scenario that the marriage ceremony will take place at the Registrar’s Office upon which the date is given depending on the number of people waiting to be married.
The couple is expected to also pay 800 shillings after the 21-day notice to obtain a certificate.
If it was in your plans to get married, this definitely is not the right time but as it is said, good things take time.