South Africa Recognizes Muslim Marriages for the First Time

IQNA – For the first time in South African history, Muslim marriages have received formal recognition, as the Department of Home Affairs issued 33 marriage certificates acknowledging Islamic unions.

To facilitate this change, the Department of Home Affairs updated its internal systems, allowing for the formal recognition of marriages within the Islamic faith community, Eye Witness News reported on Friday.

Additionally, individuals who wish to have their marriage certificates reprinted to reflect their union as a Muslim marriage can do so for a fee of R20.

“This is a major step towards enhancing the dignity of this faith community, and reflects the ongoing commitment of Home Affairs to deliver dignity to all our valued clients,” said Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber.

"Members of the Islamic faith community have made extraordinary contributions to South Africa’s history for more than 350 years. While it comes hundreds of years later than it should have, it is a personal honour for me to preside as minister over the granting of marriage certificates recognizing Muslim marriages."

Source: Agencies