Section 78: Marriage rights
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) Every person who has attained the age of eighteen years has the right to found a family.
(2) No person may be compelled to enter into marriage against their will.
(3) Persons of the same sex are prohibited from marrying each other.
PART 3
ELABORATION OF C ERTAIN R IGHTS
Insight on Marriage Rights in Zimbabwe
This constitutional provision establishes a framework for marriage that reflects Zimbabwe's traditional values while addressing consent issues. While it protects individuals from forced marriages and establishes a minimum age requirement, clause 3 explicitly restricts marriage equality for same-sex couples, placing Zimbabwe among nations that constitutionally limit marriage to heterosexual relationships. This represents a significant contrast to the growing global trend toward marriage equality recognized in many other countries.