Costly wedding traditions leave Nimroz couples in debt — Pajhwok

ZARANJ (Pajhwok): Some couples in southwestern Nimroz province are still paying off debts incurred for their wedding ceremonies years after getting married, while some young people remain unable to begin their married lives because they cannot afford the costs. Social activists and experts say simplifying ceremonies and reducing social pressure could help lessen the economic consequences of these traditions. The high costs of wedding ceremonies have caused financial difficulties for some families and young people in the province. One couple say they are still paying off their wedding debt five years after their marriage, while two other young people have been waiting for four years to begin their married lives because of disagreements over wedding expenses. Some young people also say they have had to work several jobs simultaneously, seek financial assistance from others or consider labour migration to cover wedding costs. Simplifying ceremonies and reducing unnecessary expenses are also among the issues highlighted in a recent decree by the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) concerning the prevention of certain improper traditions. 5 years of struggling to repay wedding debt Syed Ahmad and Zakia, a couple who married five years ago, say they borrowed money to hold their wedding ceremony and are still struggling to repay the debt. Syed Ahmad told Pajhwok: “Five years ago, my…