Registration of Customary Marriage and Divorce Act, 2009
An Act providing for the registration of customary marriages and divorces in Sierra Leone and regulating aspects of customary marriage.
Summary
The Registration of Customary Marriage and Divorce Act, 2009 provides for the registration of marriages and divorces contracted under customary law in Sierra Leone. It is one of the 'gender justice' reforms strengthening the recognition and regulation of customary marriage.
The Act requires and provides for the registration of customary marriages and divorces, gives registered customary marriages clear legal recognition, and regulates aspects such as consent and the minimum age for marriage. By providing proof of marriage and divorce, it protects the rights of spouses — especially women — in matters such as inheritance, property and maintenance, and reduces disputes over marital status.
It operates alongside the Devolution of Estates Act and the Domestic Violence Act.
Main provisions
- Provides for the registration of customary marriages and divorces.
- Gives registered customary marriages clear legal recognition.
- Regulates consent and the minimum age for marriage.
- Provides proof of marital status for inheritance, property and maintenance.
- Protects the rights of spouses, especially women.
- Operates alongside the other 2007/2009 gender-justice laws.