INTRODUCTION
Marriage is a crucial rite of passage for the Yaana, an indigenous community living in Burkina Faso, with nuptial practices steeped in symbols and meanings that reflect the values and social norms of their culture. This text examines the ceremonies, rites of passage, obligations, and responsibilities associated with marriage in this community.
The Abduction
After winning the heart of their beloved, an abduction is organized. It involves reaching an agreement with the bride-to-be to run away together. The future bride is hidden at the young man’s uncle’s place. Her family visits after a period of time and, following discussions, brings kola nuts as they announce to the girl’s family that she is with them. They also inquire about the marriage process.
Abduction also concerns married women. In such cases, a woman may no longer want her husband, or her husband may be unaware of her worth. Therefore, another suitor, aware of her value, may abduct her out of love and offer her a better life.
Marriage
The Yaana distinguishes between two types of marriage. First is the “lito,” which involves exchanging a sister for a wife. The uniqueness of this marriage lies in the fact that if the sister leaves her home for any reason, the wife also applies the principle of reciprocity and returns home, and vice versa. Second is the dowry, which involves giving a cow, a sheep, a guinea fowl, and a chicken to the bride’s family after the birth of their daughter. In cases of infertility, the dowry is given to obtain a “pog-poaga,” a second wife. If the second wife bears children, the husband is no longer obliged to fulfill the dowry. To acquire a wife, one must meet one of the aforementioned conditions.
The “Pogsioré”
Since marriage is considered extremely sacred, it begins with the introduction of the families. In the absence of prohibitions or obstacles to their union, and after the agreement of all parties involved, a brother of the bride and a young sister known as “pog-pal-yoaya” accompany her to her husband’s home. Depending on the clans, they spend three, seven, or fourteen days with the newlywed couple. At the end of the designated time, a rooster is cooked for the man and a guinea fowl for the “pog-pal-yoaya.” Additionally, 165 CFA francs are given to the “pog-pal-yoaya,” and 220 CFA francs to the accompanying brother. If the man who accompanied the delegation fathers a daughter afterwards, he is obligated to give her to the husband of his sister as a second wife, known as “pog-lenga.”
CONCLUSION
The Yaana marriage carries profound significance. Each step is carefully chosen. Women are at the centre of the community’s concerns. Each practice held deep meaning and contributed to strengthening alliances and mutual respect in households. It allowed each party to be aware of their commitment and the various social implications, thus preventing divorce.