A 9-YEAR-OLD schoolboy in South Africa has become one of the world’s youngest grooms for the second time — marrying his 62-year-old wife again.

    Looking a little taller in last year’s silver tuxedo, baby-faced Saneie Masilela clutched the hand of Helen Shabangu as they repeated their vows one year on.

    The second marriage ceremony was held at the home of the blushing bride in front of around 100 guests.

    Wide-eyed residents looked on as the married mother-of-five shared a piece of cake, a toast and even a kiss with her young groom Saneie — and long-term husband Alfred Shabangu, 66.

    Last year the boy, from nearby Tshwane, tied the knot with bride Helen after claiming he had been told by his dead ancestors to wed.

    Shockingly his family took the message from the heavens seriously and hurriedly forked out US$845 for the bride and a further US$1,690 for the big day.

    But little Saneie wouldn’t rest until the couple followed through with South African traditions insisting they have the second ceremony to make their marriage official.

    Despite stunned villagers branding the act “sickening,” the boy’s family defended the union saying it was just a ritual and not legally binding.

    Saneie’s 47-year-old mom, Patience Masilela, said: “Saneie was fine and he was happy about the ceremony last year.”

    Old enough to be his grandmother, bride Helen, whose children are aged between 38 and 28, yesterday said she was still happy with the arrangement.

    Saneie and his bride did not sign a marriage certificate and do not have to live together.

    (SD-Agencies)