A UNICEF report has found that an estimated 115 million boys and men worldwide were married as children. Of these, one in five (23 million) became child grooms before the age of 15. Of the 82 countries analysed, the Central African Republic was found to have the highest prevalence of this practice.
Cultural norms
African identities Attitudes to gender and sexual diversity: changing global trends
Global attitudes to gender and sexual diversity are changing. Some embrace the diversity; others push back.
Arts and Culture Guinea gives first wives the legal right to approve a polygamous marriage
The Guinean parliament has enacted a civil code that, while in favour of monogamy, stipulates that at the time of marriage, a husband has to declare that he opts for polygamy and gain the explicit agreement of his first wife.
Arts and Culture Niger’s practice of selling young girls as an unofficial “fifth wife” has been outlawed
Niger’s top court has outlawed ‘”Wahaya”, a unique form of slavery currently practiced in that country. It involves the sale of young girls from Tuareg communities to wealthy and prominent Hausa individuals as an unofficial “fifth wife”.
Arts and Culture The Ghanaian village where childbirth is prohibited
None of the about 5 000 inhabitants of Mafi Dove, a village in southern Ghana, was born there. The village is considered to be holy land and consequently has a myriad of customs and traditions that have been upheld throughout its existence. One of these is the belief that childbirth in the village is an offence to the gods.
Lifestyle Maggi commercial raises questions on gender roles in Nigeria
How important are television commercials in shaping the society, to debunk or entrench stereotypes? Maggi’s latest commercial has been the topic of debate in Nigeria, with many referring to the commercial as being misogynistic.
African identities Lulu Jemimah: Marry yourself as a commitment to your ambitions
After completing her undergraduate degree, 32-year-old Lulu Jemimah successfully joined Oxford University’s master’s programme. Despite this feat, her parents were more focused on her future nuptials. Fed up with the pressure, Lulu returned to Uganda and, in a mock ceremony, married herself.
Politics and Society Should African countries legally recognize traditional healers as legitimate medical practitioners?
The eSwatini High Court is hearing a test case that could set precedent for whether employers should accept sick notes and medical reports from traditional healers.
Politics and Society Nigerian churches and their role in encouraging patriarchy
“In Christ there is no male or female,” but in many churches across Africa gender inequality is the norm, which is often justified. The church has become a tool which engenders gender segregation, in support of patriarchy. Rape in marriages is hardly addressed, and women are taught to be submissive in marriage. Are churches guilty as charged? How should some of these teachings be challenged and changed? Let’s hear your thoughts on this issue.