Abstract
Family is the foundation of human existence so much that family forms the basis of recognition of most international and regional instruments. It is on this basis that the need to protect this foundation becomes germane and has been accorded protection of varying degrees across the world. This paper examines the protection of family life in Africa with focus on Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and South Africa. The basis for selecting the jurisdictions of study is to have a representation of West, East, North and South regions of Africa which forms the basis for comparism. The methodology of this research is the doctrinal comparative legal research. The paper examines primary and secondary sources upon which comparative analysis is made to determine the extent of protection of family life in these countries.