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NKANDLA, South Africa (Reuters) - South African President Jacob Zuma married for the fifth time on Monday, giving the Zulu traditionalist his third current wife, witnesses and family members said.

Multiple marriages are allowed in South Africa and form part of Zulu culture but the practice has drawn criticism from HIV/AIDS activists in a country with one of the highest infection rates in the world.

The ceremony took place at Zuma's traditional home in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal province, where the 68-year-old president, in Zulu tribal dress, married Tobeka Madiba, 37, according to clan custom.

"This is a traditional affair and there is a lot of dancing and celebrating. Later we will slaughter some animals and have a feast with the guests," Mike Zuma, the president's brother, told Reuters.

"It is a very happy day for the president and the Zuma family".

Madiba and Zuma have three children together and were married according to South African law ahead of Monday's traditional ceremony.

A statement issued by the presidency on Sunday said the wedding was a private affair. The media were barred from the village.

A Reuters photographer in Nkandla said hundreds of people were bused into the village early on Monday, while cabinet ministers and other politicians also attended the ceremony.