Strength and Stigma: Comparing East and West African women’s choices in marriage

The tendency of East African women being less likely to stay in abusive marriages compared to West African women is a complex issue influenced by cultural, social, economic, and legal factors, rather than a fixed regional behavior.

Here’s a breakdown of why this perception might exist:

Cultural and Societal Expectations

West Africa
Many West African societies place a strong emphasis on family unity and the preservation of marriage. Divorce is often stigmatized, and women may face societal pressure to remain in their marriages, even if abusive, to maintain family honor or for the sake of their children. Traditional gender roles sometimes place a higher expectation on women to endure hardships for the family’s sake.

East Africa
While East African societies also value family and marriage, there is increasing advocacy and awareness around women’s rights in many East African countries. Cultural shifts, especially in urban areas, have led to reduced stigma around divorce. In some communities, women are empowered to leave abusive relationships if their safety and dignity are at stake.

READ ALSO: Timi and Salome: Deep things you need to know toxic relationships

On a balanced view of Polygamy… what you should know

Legal Protections and Women’s Rights Movements

East Africa
Countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania have made significant progress in enacting laws to protect women from domestic violence. Advocacy groups and organizations are active in creating awareness and providing resources for women in abusive relationships. This support system makes it more feasible for women to leave abusive marriages.

West Africa
Although progress is being made, domestic violence laws and enforcement mechanisms in many West African countries can be weaker or inconsistently applied. In some cases, women lack access to the resources needed to leave abusive situations, such as shelters, legal aid, or financial independence.

Economic Independence

East Africa
Increasing access to education and economic opportunities for women in countries like Kenya and Uganda allows them more independence. A woman with financial means and a career is more likely to leave an abusive marriage.

West Africa:
While many West African women are economically active, particularly in informal sectors like trade, systemic gender inequalities may limit their financial independence, making it harder to leave an abusive partner.

Religious and Traditional Beliefs

West Africa
Strong religious adherence (Islam and Christianity) often plays a role in encouraging women to remain in their marriages. Religious leaders or family members may advise endurance rather than separation, even in cases of abuse.

East Africa
Religion also influences societal values in East Africa, but many religious institutions are beginning to advocate for women’s safety and empowerment, encouraging women to seek help or leave unsafe environments.

Awareness and Education

East Africa
Education campaigns about domestic violence and women’s rights are more widespread in some East African countries, particularly in urban areas. This awareness helps women recognize abuse and seek help.

West Africa
Efforts to combat domestic violence exist but are sometimes hindered by traditional norms and less widespread public awareness campaigns in rural or underserved areas.

To summarise, East African women are more likely to leave abusive marriages compared to West African women. This could be due to cultural and societal differences between the two regions. East African women, in many cases, seem to have more support systems and legal frameworks encouraging them to prioritize their safety and happiness. For example, countries like Rwanda and Kenya have made significant strides in addressing gender-based violence, offering resources and advocacy for women in abusive situations.

On the other hand, in West Africa, there tends to be a stronger cultural emphasis on preserving marriage at all costs, which might make it harder for women to leave. Traditional norms, societal pressures, and religious beliefs often encourage women to endure hardships for the sake of family or community harmony.

While East African women might have better access to resources, legal protections, and societal acceptance of leaving abusive marriages, the differences are not absolute. Women’s choices in both regions are shaped by individual circumstances, community values, and the availability of support systems. It’s important to focus on increasing awareness, resources, and legal protections for women across all regions to empower them to leave abusive situations safely.

Written by Alice Ochieng- Tarr