New data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) highlights a clear shift in South Africa’s relationship landscape: fewer people are getting married, while divorce rates are increasing, with women continuing to file for the majority of cases.
But beyond the numbers, the data also points to something more meaningful: couples are approaching marriage with greater intention, and individuals are making more informed decisions about long-term commitment.
Marriages continue to decline
In 2024, South Africa recorded 102 373 marriages and unions, down 2.6% from 2023. Since 2015, marriages have decreased by 28.5%.
Civil marriages followed the same pattern, declining to 97 510 in 2024. This steady drop suggests that many couples are choosing to marry later, taking more time before formalising their relationships.
Divorce numbers are rising
A total of 24 202 divorces were granted in 2024 — an 8.9% increase from the previous year.
Women filed for 57.2% of these divorces, continuing a consistent trend. This reflects greater access to legal processes, as well as increased financial independence and decision-making power.
Provincial breakdown
Divorce cases initiated by women were highest in Gauteng (31.0%), followed by the Western Cape (18.6%) and KwaZulu-Natal (13.8%).
Who is filing for divorce?
Most women filing for divorce in 2024 were ending their first marriage (89.1%). The highest number of divorces occurred among women aged 40 to 44, followed by those aged 35 to 39.
In most cases (70.7%), women were younger than their spouses.
Employment and independence
Of the women who filed for divorce, 44.6% were employed, many in professional, technical, managerial, and administrative roles. Financial stability gives individuals more control over major life decisions, including whether to stay in a marriage.
When marriages end
The largest share of divorces (26.7%) occurred in marriages lasting five to nine years, followed by 10 to 14 years (21.3%). Overall, 41.7% of divorces involved marriages that lasted less than a decade.
A shift towards intentional commitment
While the number of marriages is declining, the data suggests a move towards more considered, intentional unions. Many couples are choosing to marry later, after establishing careers and gaining life experience.
ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it
Feature image: Pexels
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