Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
According to the laws of Uganda, a “customary marriage” is a marriage celebrated according to the rites of an African community and one of the parties to which is a member of that community. It should be noted that customary marriages are potentially polygamous, copy of the certificate shall be conclusive evidence of the marriage for all purposes in any written law. ‘ Section 10 is therefore clear that once a certificate or a certified copy of the certificate is tendered in evidence, it is conclusive evidence that the marriage took place.
Process For Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
Persons married under customary law should have registered their marriage with the Sub – County Chief or Town Clerk in their area within 6 months. The Sub-County Chief or Town Clerk shall issue them with a Certificate or Registration of their customary marriage.
Requirements For Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
The prospective spouses must both be above the age of 18 years; They must both consent to be married to each other under customary law; and. The marriage must be negotiated and entered into or celebrated in accordance with customary law.
Photocopy of Identifications documents for the couple and witnesses. Cover letter from the sub -county chief of the sub county where the marriage took place. A duly filled Form B (marriage certificate in the Format prescribed by law) signed and stamped by the sub county chief/ or certified copy of the same.
Advantage For Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
A certificate of customary marriage serves as prima facie proof of the existence of that marriage – i.e. it would be difficult to dispute that there is no such marriage. The importance of obtaining such a certificate of customary marriage cannot be overstated, and should be clearly communicated to all members.
Disadvantage For Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
Customary marriage is a challenge to conveyancers, estate practitioners and divorce attorneys. Once the marriage is valid and in existence, the marriage can only be dissolved by a court through a decree of divorce, as in the case of a civil marriage.
Types Of Registration Of Customary Marriage In Uganda
Three marriage types are recognized in the country: customary, religious and civil law marriages. In customary law marriages, the wife is often regarded as the man’s property and she is generally not expected to entertain any measure of equality in whatever form.
Cost For Customary Marriage In Uganda
| Service | Details | National Applications (Ugx) |
|---|---|---|
| Registration of a customary marriage within six (6) months | UGX 20,000 | |
| Registration of a customary marriage after six (6) months | UGX 40,000 | |
| Special Licenses | Process applications for special licenses | UGX 300,000 |
| Issuance of Special license | FREE |
Office Location For Customary Marriage In Uganda
Uganda Registration Services Bureau
Uganda Business Facilitation Centre Plot 1 Baskerville Avenue, Kololo
Toll Free: 0800 100 006
Call Center: +256 417 338 100
Phone: +256 414 233 219 / 0417338000
Whistle Blower Hotline: 0414673200
WhatsApp: 0712 448 448
Fax: +256 414 250 712
ursb@ursb.go.