Ilobolo
The Zulu and Xhosa form of bridewealth, negotiated between the two families before the wedding.
Also: lobolo (Zulu and Xhosa), ikhazi
Ilobolo is the Zulu and Xhosa word for the gifts the groom's family gives the bride's family, traditionally cattle. The groom's delegation, led by an elder or a go-between, visits the bride's home to open talks, and the bride's family names the amount. The Xhosa often speak of ikhazi for the bride's side of the exchange. In South Africa the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of 1998 treats lobola negotiations as part of a customary marriage. Families often settle the sum in stages and in money rather than cattle.
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa