By CHILA NAMAIKO –

HOME Affairs Minister Davies Mwila has urged couples to always dialogue when faced with marital disputes instead of engaging in confrontations that lead to Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Mr Mwila said although marriages go through challenges once in a while, couples should remain committed to loving each other and seek advice instead of resorting to violent means.
He was speaking in Lusaka at the weekend at a colourful wedding ceremony of his daughter, Leah, who got married to Simon Sichinga at the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) officers’ mess.
“Discipline is vital in sustaining any marriage. Marriage is full of challenges, but I want to urge you not to resort to violence, but always seek advice and love each other,” he said.
Health Minister, Joseph Kasonde, who was guest of honour said marriage played a critical role as it strengthened and bonded families, institutions and the country.
Dr Kasonde said strong marriages contributed immensely to the economic growth and well-being of a nation and reduced the risks of a population contracting sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
“This is because when a man and a woman get married, they settle down and only focus on things that better their lives and that of their country,” he said.
On the contrary, research had it that a nation with less marriages was less productive, because the family institution was weak.
He called on young men and women to enter into holy matrimony, so that the family  institution could be strengthened.
To prolong a marriage, he said, there was need for a couple to respect each other, learn to communicate, be honest, and open in all aspects of marriage including that of finances.
“Above all, be faithful to one another because God greatly rewards a couple that is faithful to one another,” he said.
Dr Kasonde cautioned parents to avoid unnecessary interference in the affairs of young couples, but allow them to make their own independent decisions.
Among other dignitaries at the event were Transport and Communication Minister Yamfwa Mukanga and his Tourism and Arts counterpart Jean Kapata.