Rutendo Nyeve, Sunday Life Reporter
CELEBRATING 50 years of marriage is no small feat and for retired senior Government official Engineer George Mlilo and his wife Jester, their half-century marriage is a remarkable testament to love, resilience and faith.
Like all couples that have stayed together for so long, their journey has been filled with both joyous highs and challenging lows, all of which have strengthened their bond and deepened their commitment to each other and to God.
Eng Mlilo, the former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and his wife’s love story began in 1974 at Gwanda High School, where they were both teaching technical subjects. Their shared passion for education and their dedication to shaping young minds brought them together and it was not long before they discovered a deeper connection.
Their relationship blossomed in the halls of the school, where they bonded over their mutual respect for each other’s intellect, work ethic and shared Christian values.
Their colleagues and students often remarked on the harmony and mutual admiration that defined their partnership, both in and out of the classroom.
After a year of courtship, their love culminated in a beautiful wedding ceremony on 8 February 1975 at the Brethren in Christ Church in Mtshabezi.
“I met my wife in 1974 when we were both technical teachers at Gwanda High School. A year later, we exchanged vows not only to each other but also to God, pledging to build a marriage rooted in faith, love, and service.
Our wedding day was a joyous celebration of our commitment, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey together,” narrated Eng Mlilo to Sunday Life.
The following year, one of the most significant tests of their marriage came when Eng Mlilo crossed into Zambia to join the armed struggle. This period of separation was undoubtedly difficult for both of them as they were forced to endure the emotional and physical distance between them.
“In 1976, we had transferred to Bulawayo where Mrs Mlilo taught at Sobukhazi Secondary School and I taught at Njube High. In that year, I crossed the border to Zambia through Botswana where I joined the liberation struggle under the Zapu military wing ZPRA.
“The leadership then posted me to Budapest in Hungary to further my studies where I enrolled at a Technical University and later graduated with an engineering degree,” said Eng Mlilo.
Engineer George Mlilo and his wife Jester, As a young couple
Yet, even in this trying time, their faith remained unshaken.
Mrs Mlilo held the fort at home, praying for her husband’s safety and trusting in God’s plan. Their unwavering belief in God’s providence helped them remain steadfast even when the future seemed uncertain.
“I remained behind as he crossed the border and ultimately went overseas. However, what I told myself was that I did not make my marriage vows to him or the people who were present there, but I made them before the Lord.
“The fear of the Lord saw me being loyal to my vows. Fortunately, after some time, he arranged that I follow him and we spent some time together there,” narrated Mrs Mlilo at their family home in Matsheumhlope in Bulawayo.
What remained at the centre of the conversation with the Mlilos is that throughout their marriage, they have consistently turned to their faith to resolve conflicts, seek guidance and celebrate their blessings.
They have made it a priority to pray together, attend church as a family, and live out the principles of love, forgiveness, and humility that Christianity teaches.
Their commitment to keeping their vows has not only strengthened their relationship but has also been a powerful witness to those around them, inspiring others to prioritise faith and perseverance in their marriages.
Despite the ups and downs, their love has endured and grown stronger over the decades. They have celebrated countless milestones together, raised a family of four children, and supported each other through life’s challenges.
Their 50-year anniversary is a celebration not just of their love for each other, but of their shared devotion to God, who has been the centre of their marriage from the very beginning.
Upon returning to Zimbabwe Eng Mlilo made history by becoming the first black city engineer for Kwekwe, Gweru, and later Bulawayo.
His ground-breaking achievements in these roles were a testament to his skill, determination, and commitment to excellence. Throughout his career, Mrs Mlilo remained his steadfast partner, managing their home and raising their children while also supporting her husband’s professional endeavours.
Her role as a pillar of strength and stability allowed Eng Mlilo to focus on his work, knowing that their family was in capable and loving hands.
“As a wife, in those years culminating into 50 years, I learnt selflessness, putting my husband’s needs before mine taught me true love and sacrifice. I embraced my role as a wife, developed patience, strengthened my faith and above all marriage taught me the importance of expressing myself with love and understanding my husband’s perspective
“It also built resilience, marriage tested and refined me, making me stronger and wiser. I learnt how to work for my family. I do not remember fighting over minor issues like asking who is calling him or fighting over money. I would work and he did not bother how much I earned, I am the one who would just tell him,” said Mrs Mlilo.
Together, the Mlilos grew not only in their careers but also in their faith and love for each other. They faced the challenges of life with grace and resilience, always turning to God for guidance and strength. Their marriage became a shining example of partnership, mutual support, and unwavering faith.
As they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last Saturday, they reflected on a lifetime of shared memories, accomplishments, and the blessings of a marriage centred on God. Their story is one of love, perseverance, and the power of faith to sustain and uplift a family through every season of life. — @nyeve14
