The three forms of marriage in Ghana, and why registration matters
Customary, ordinance and Islamic marriages have different rules. What each one means, and how to prove your marriage.
· 1 min read
Ghanaian law recognises three forms of marriage. Each is valid, but the formalities and some of the consequences differ.
Customary marriage
A customary marriage is contracted according to the customs of the families concerned, usually through the consent of both families and the presentation of drinks and other items. The Customary Marriage and Divorce (Registration) Law, 1985 (PNDCL 112) provides for these marriages to be registered.
Ordinance marriage
A marriage under the Marriages Act, 1884-1985 (CAP 127) is monogamous and celebrated by a licensed minister or a registrar after notice is given. A party to an ordinance marriage cannot validly marry anyone else while it subsists.
Islamic marriage
Marriages of persons professing Islam may be registered under the Marriage of Mohammedans provisions of the same Act.
Why register
A marriage certificate is the simplest proof of a marriage. It can matter for inheritance, pensions, immigration, and claims to property on divorce or death.
Sources
- Marriages Act, 1884-1985 (CAP 127)
- Customary Marriage and Divorce (Registration) Law, 1985 (PNDCL 112)
- GhaLII, Ghana Legal Information Institute (texts of Ghanaian statutes and judgments)
This article is general information about Ghanaian law, not legal advice. Speak to a lawyer about your own situation.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Please contact us about your own situation.
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