Family Experts Urge Preparation and Patience as Divorce Rates Persist in Rwanda

As family breakdowns continue to be reported in Rwanda shortly after couples begin married life, experts in family relations and social development say inadequate preparation before marriage remains one of the leading causes of early divorce.

In recent years, the dissolution of families has become a growing concern in Rwandan society. Across the country, reports of couples separating after only a short time together have become increasingly common, prompting various stakeholders to question the current state of family stability.

Relationship analysts point out that changes in lifestyles and mindsets particularly among young people have significantly contributed to rising marital conflicts. These changes include rushing into marriage without sufficient time to understand one another, as well as failing to discuss life goals, financial expectations, and household responsibilities in advance.

Another frequently cited factor is the pursuit of short-term material gains within marriage rather than a long-term commitment to building a stable family. When such expectations are unmet or decline over time, misunderstandings and conflicts often arise, sometimes leading to divorce.

Parents and elders note that traditional family structures were grounded in strong upbringing and long-term guidance on marital responsibilities, patience, and peaceful conflict resolution. They argue that many young couples today miss out on such preparation before marriage.

It is against this backdrop that experts in family relations and social welfare are calling for increased awareness campaigns to help young people better understand marital responsibilities and adequately prepare before deciding to live together as husband and wife.

Speaking to Top Africa News, several young people and parents said that many divorces stem from material expectations, rushed decisions to marry, and insufficient dialogue before marriage.

Mukamana Clarisse, a young woman from Gisagara District, said many people enter marriage without a clear intention to build a lasting family. “Some people get married focusing on immediate benefits instead of long-term life goals. When those benefits disappear, conflicts quickly begin,” Mukamana Clarisse said.

From the perspective of older generations, families in the past were built on values of patience, dialogue, and mutual respect values that appear to be fading today.

Mukarugema Thérèse, a parent from Huye District, said proper upbringing once played a key role in strengthening families. “We were taught that marriage is a lifelong school where one learns patience and how to resolve problems. Today, many young people rush decisions, and small issues become reasons for separation,” she explained.

Dr. Masengo Fidele, a lawyer specializing in family law, said the rise in family breakdowns highlights gaps in marital preparation.

He outlined four essential steps couples should take before marriage: getting to know each other well, discussing life goals and finances, understanding household responsibilities, and preparing legally and socially for marriage. “These steps help reduce unexpected challenges and prevent the breakdown of newly formed families,” Dr. Masengo noted.

Statistics from Rwanda’s Judiciary show that during the 2024/2025 judicial year, 2,674 couples filed for divorce a slight decrease compared to 2,833 cases recorded in the previous year.

According to the Judiciary’s annual report, divorce cases continue to outnumber other civil cases handled by Rwandan courts, underscoring the urgent need to address family stability issues.

Experts are therefore urging increased public education efforts targeting youth through the media, schools, and community discussions to promote family values and support the creation of strong and sustainable households.