The inheritance dilemma: Why African women are denied their rights

Imagine a woman who lost her husband or father and was left with nothing. No property, no land, no assets. This is the harsh reality many women face in Africa, where customary laws and traditional practices exclude them from inheriting property and assets.

In many African societies, women are denied their right to inherit land or property, whether as daughters or wives. Customary laws regulate the transfer of assets between generations, but these laws are often biased against women. As a result, widows and daughters are frequently excluded from inheriting their husbands’ or fathers’ assets.

This practice is not only unrealistic but also a clear violation of human rights. Women should have the right to own property, inherit assets, and make decisions about their own lives. However, in many African countries, women are expected to accept this status quo without question or challenge.

When it comes to inheritance, three key questions often arise: Does the deceased have a male child? Was he married? Is there a will in place? These questions are frequently debated across Africa, highlighting the complexities and challenges surrounding women’s inheritance rights.

But why is this practice so prevalent in Africa? From my discussion with a few older mentors, I realised that one reason is the persistence of patriarchal attitudes and customary laws that favor men. In many societies, men are seen as the primary breadwinners and decision-makers, while women are relegated to subordinate roles.

Another reason I discovered was the lack of awareness and education about women’s rights. Many women are not aware of their rights and entitlements under the law, making it difficult for them to challenge discriminatory practices.

So, what can be done to address this issue? Firstly, governments and policymakers must take steps to reform customary laws and ensure that they align with international human rights standards. This includes recognising women’s rights to own property, inherit assets, and make decisions about their own lives.

Secondly, awareness and education campaigns are needed to inform women about their rights and entitlements. This can include training programs for community leaders, women’s groups, and other stakeholders.

Finally, women must be empowered to challenge discriminatory practices and demand their rights. This requires support from civil society organizations, community leaders, and other stakeholders. Empowering women in Africa to challenge discriminatory practices and demand their rights to inheritance requires a multi-faceted approach, such as; building a network of supportive women and organizations can provide a sense of community and encouragement, advocating for policy changes that promote women’s rights to inheritance, educating women about their rights, particularly regarding inheritance, is also crucial, educating the male counterpart on how inheritance can be shared can also help in this regard.

In conclusion, the denial of women’s inheritance rights in Africa is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By reforming customary laws, educating women about their rights, and empowering them to demand justice, we can work towards a more equitable and just society for all. By implementing these strategies, women in Africa can be empowered to challenge discriminatory practices and demand their rights to inheritance.

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