Each year, South Africans are invited to pause and celebrate one of life’s most meaningful bonds: marriage.

As a national initiative that encourages couples to invest time, care and intention into their relationships, Marriage Week South Africa is observed from 1 to 7 September.

The 2026 theme, “Rooted in Love,” reminds us that healthy marriages, like strong trees, grow from deep roots: trust, communication, forgiveness and shared joy. Through daily reflections and challenges, couples are encouraged to reconnect emotionally and spiritually, nurturing the foundation that supports their families and communities.

Marriage is more than a private commitment; it is a cornerstone of family and social wellbeing. When couples strengthen their relationships, they also strengthen the communities around them.

This week offers a chance to reflect, rekindle affection, and celebrate the everyday acts of love that sustain long-term partnerships.

Families South Africa (Famsa) plays a vital role in promoting healthy relationships and emotional wellbeing. Through counselling, workshops and community programmes, Famsa helps couples and families build communication, empathy and resilience.

Throughout Marriage Week, Famsa Upington and satellite offices are hosting interactive workshops under the Rooted in Love theme – guiding couples through seven growth-focused sessions that explore gratitude, forgiveness, trust and joy.

Seven-day challenge

Each activity encourages reflection and connection, helping partners rediscover the beauty of their bond. Couples are invited to practice one simple challenge each day:

■ Day 1: Plant the seed. Remember what first drew you to your partner. Challenge: Share one memory or reason you fell in love.

■ Day 2: Water with words: Kind words nourish love. Challenge: Send your partner a heartfelt compliment or encouragement.

■ Day 3: Sunlight of gratitude: Gratitude shines light on the small things. Challenge: Thank your partner for something they do daily.

■ Day 4: Prune with forgiveness. Let go of irritations and past hurts. Challenge: Release one small resentment and choose peace today.

■ Day 5: Branch out together: Shared experiences create new memories. Challenge: Try a new activity, meal, or walk hand-in-hand together.

■ Day 6: Shelter in trust. Trust is built through honesty and openness. Challenge: Share a hope or worry and listen without judgment.

■ Day 7: Harvest joy. Celebrate your journey and dream forward. Challenge: Reflect on your week and plan one future goal together.

For more information or to join a workshop near you, dial 053 723 1564 or send a WhatsApp message to 082 727 8810.