Home Affairs grants equal recognition to Muslim marriage officers

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced a key reform aimed at promoting equality for the Muslim faith community by recognising Muslim marriage officers on the same basis as other religious marriage officers.

According to the South African Government News Agency, the change follows a directive issued by Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber.

The directive removes the requirement for Muslim marriage officers to renew their certification every five years. Previously, this rule applied only to Muslim religious leaders, while marriage officers from other faiths were certified for an unlimited period.

The ministry said the five-year renewal condition had been introduced as a temporary measure while new marriage legislation was being developed. However, the Marriage Bill has not yet been finalised.

This reform follows the introduction of marriage certificates in 2024 that, for the first time, formally recognised Muslim marriages in South Africa.

Schreiber said the decision ensures equal treatment across all religious groups.

“This decision ensures that all marriage officers, including Muslim marriage officers, are treated on equal terms,” he said.

He added that the reform reflects the department’s commitment to dignity and fairness under the Government of National Unity.

The Department of Home Affairs is expected to provide further administrative guidance to stakeholders on how the changes will be implemented.