The family is the foundation of society, and its dynamics can have a ripple effect on the broader community. Despite its importance, the family is not immune to challenges. Divorce is a common phenomenon in Africa, despite the continent’s strong family bonds and communal values.
Rapid urbanization, modernization, and globalization are ushering in a wave of transformation that is questioning deeply rooted traditions. As a result, there is a noticeable wave of divorce.
Divorce is a legal process that dissolves a marriage, making both parties involved single and free to remarry. It can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience, with significant financial repercussions.
Limited data on divorce in Africa exists, but a report by Wisevoter offers insights into global divorce statistics by country. The following are the African countries with the highest divorce rates:
| Rank | Country | Divorce rate | Global rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Libya | 2.5 per 1k | 18 |
| 2 | Egypt | 2.2 per 1k | 23 |
| 3 | Mauritius | 1.7 per 1k | 50 |
| 4 | Algeria | 1.6 per 1k | 53 |
| 5 | Seychelles | 1.5 per 1k | 65 |
| 6 | Sudan | 1.5 per 1k | 67 |
| 7 | South Africa | 0.6 per 1k | 109 |