ADDIS ABABA — In a landmark move to address the nation’s soaring divorce rates, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Women and Social Affairs has announced plans to implement mandatory premarital training certification before any couple can legally wed.

The new regulation, slated to take effect next year, would require all prospective couples to complete and obtain a premarital training certificate before entering into marriage, according to ministry officials.

A Response to Alarming Statistics

The announcement comes on the heels of concerning data from the Addis Ababa City Civil Registration and Residence Service Agency, which revealed that divorce rates have skyrocketed by 54 percent compared to previous years. With over 20 million families currently in Ethiopia, the stability of the family unit has become a pressing national concern.

“We have prepared training manuals to address this problem,” said Mr. Tesfaye Robele, Chief Executive for Elderly and Family Affairs at the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs. “The primary cause for many marital breakdowns is the lack of awareness and understanding about what marriage truly entails.”

Collaborative Approach with Religious Institutions

In a nation where marriage is deeply intertwined with religious and cultural traditions, the ministry is taking a collaborative approach to implementation. Officials emphasize that the new system will be developed in consultation with religious institutions and community elders, ensuring respect for diverse cultural and faith-based marriage traditions.

“We are working in consultation with religious institutions and elders,” Mr. Tesfaye confirmed. “We have made preparations to implement this system next year.”

Beyond Certification: Creating a Support Network

The premarital certification requirement is just one component of a broader strategy to strengthen Ethiopian families. The ministry also announced the establishment of a joint forum bringing together various institutions working on family issues.

According to Mr. Tesfaye, this forum aims to fill gaps in family management practices and will provide recommendations and guidance to the government on necessary actions to support family stability.

“We must begin the journey toward national change starting from the family,” the official emphasized, highlighting the fundamental role that stable households play in broader societal development.

Implementation Timeline

Ministry officials indicate that preparations are currently underway, with the goal of launching the mandatory training program within the next year. The specific curriculum content, duration of training, and implementation mechanisms are expected to be finalized following consultations with religious and community leaders.

As Ethiopia grapples with rapidly changing social dynamics, this proactive approach to marriage preparation represents a significant intervention aimed at strengthening the foundational unit of society—the family.

The initiative signals the government’s recognition that healthy marriages are not just private matters but contribute substantially to national stability and development.

This feature examines Ethiopia’s innovative approach to addressing rising divorce rates through mandatory premarital education and certification.