For Raymond Makumi Kiiru and Anne Ng’endo, February 14, 2025, will be engraved on the rings they exchanged as they tied the knot after 30 years of staying together.

As Kenyans celebrated Valentine’s Day by exchanging gifts, enjoying meals, and spending time with loved ones, the two took a big step of saying ‘I do’ during a colourful church ceremony conducted at Our Lady of Holy Rosary Kamwangi Catholic Church in Gatundu North.

They exchanged their marriage vows in a ceremony attended by family and friends who turned up in large numbers.

Makumi told journalists that they decided to solemnize their marriage after having learned from one another, loved one another and have gone through trials and tribulations and overcame them.

“The 30-year-journey has not been easy but we have survived it all because we love and care for each other. When there are issues, we always reason together and have always come up with a solution. Love keeps growing by the day,” Makumi noted.

Together for 30 years

For the thirty years they have been together, the two pointed out that a successful and lasting marriage takes love, trust, perspective, commitment, understanding, friendship and faith in each other.

They thereby advised young people to take their time to know their partners and avoid rushing into making decisions that would lead to squabbles in their family set-ups.

Makumi dispelled claims that Kenyan men are not romantic saying that the generalization is not only inaccurate but also misinformed noting that romantic behaviour can only be spotted greatly among individuals.

Symbol of love

On her part, Ng’endo lauded the special Valentine’s Day gift from Makumi saying it symbolizes the extent of his love for her. She vowed to upscale her love towards him following the special treatment.

“I really appreciate my husband for the special treatment. Today he has made it clear that we were meant to be and I promise to love him even more going forward,” Ng’endo vowed.

Mwaura Waithera, an elder shared a similar sentiment advising Kenyan men to cultivate a culture of loving, caring and sustainably supporting their families for a better future.

“Men should endeavour to bring their families together and rise to the occasion whenever manly decisions are required. Love is a mysterious thing that should make all of us remain together, stay united,” Mwaura advised.

A section of the attendants described the wedding event as a special gift from men especially during a day when people celebrate love and affection.

Valentine’s Day is described as significant in recognizing and honouring the ties that link people, whether couples, friends, or family members.