16 Sep 2024

Over 3 000 people participated in a 12 day-workshop to drill them on topics that included unmet expectations in relationships.

The workshop was facilitated by the Thaba family through their Healthy Families Foundation in Maun. 

They were also drilled on communication, preparing for marriage, love languages, gender based violence and how to relate with children among others.

Many participants said the teachings had rekindled passion in their marriages and relationships. 

They said the teachings were spiritually grounded and provided some insights into how safe and supportive home environments were central to families and children’s development and well-being.

Some said the facilitators provided answers and solutions to some of their challenges. 

Those in marriages and relationships said the lessons taught them not to come with unrealistic expectations and to understand that communication was key. 

“The teachings have indeed energised my marriage and brought back romance, and I can publicly kiss my wife without fear of what will people say,” said Mr Tumelo Oagile, adding that he also learned that intimacy was not all about sex.

Mr Oagile, who has been with his partner for 22 years, 19 of them cohabitating, said the training has helped him to become a change maker and that he applied what he learned to strengthen his marriage. 

He noted the kiss he surprised his wife with after attending a session and the way it was appreciated by the wife.

Mr Oagile urged other men to love their wives unconditionally and to explore their fantasies.

Another participant, Constable Segakolodi Olesitse thanked the facilitators for discussing topics that aimed to build better marriages and strong families. 

He said he had been married for the past 14 years, and that he believed a woman should do all the house chores but has since changed his view. 

“These lessons were an eye opener of how families were a vital source of support and comfort. I now treat my wife like a queen and we share house chores,” he added.

Ms Janet Bevis, who grew up in a dysfunctional family and also got into a toxic marriage, testified that the Thabas had restored her hope. 

She said she intended to create groups and encourage couples to learn to forgive.

Ms Brevis said emotional stability fostered self-confidence and self-esteem in individuals. Ends