Although monogamous marriages are predominant polygyny still persists. Being unmarried is seen to be problematic. An unmarried man is regarded as an irresponsible person. Although an unmarried woman is also seen as an irresponsible person she is also perceived to be unlucky or unfortunate in the marriage market. It is perceived that a man demonstrates his manhood by getting married, impregnating his wife, and raising children, exercising authority over his wife and children as well as meeting their needs.
Procreation is seen as the most important role of a woman in marriage.
Consequently being a wife and a mother are seen as distinguishing marks of womanhood. A man shows that he loves the wife by providing her needs as well as that of their children. A woman equally shows that she loves the husband by respecting him, meeting his sexual needs and taking care of domestic chores. Pre-marital chastity is desired for unmarried persons. While sanctions exist for girls who indulge in pre-marital sex, the practise is tolerated for boys and no serious sanction is imposed on them.