Introduction

Getting married is a secret dream in the hearts of girls and boys. Unfortunately, through countless misfortunes, notably illness, the loved one may be cut down by death. By a unilateral decision or mutual agreement, one leaves to remake his life and the other buries the years lived. In 2020, the High Court of Ouagadougou recorded nearly 1,400 divorce cases. In 2022, 1,590 cases, which is 133 divorces per month. What are the problems experienced by widow or divorced women? 

Rejection by in-laws

A girl who gets married, belongs to her new family and her in-laws must consider her as their child. But this family bond can become ephemeral after the death of the husband or divorce. “My husband died of kidney failure, leaving me with five children at the age 31. After he died, my in-laws called a meeting. They told me I was free to go and start a new life, but on condition of leaving the children. Alone and unemployed, my brothers-in-law call me names. My only wish is to see my children succeed”. This is the testimony of a widow who decided to remain anonymous. Women also face financial problems.

Financial difficulties

Few women work before marriage. This is not because they lack the will to do so, but because the job market is rigid, especially those linked to initial training. On top of this, some husbands forbid their wives to work. According to them, they have enough money to provide for their families. But in the event of widowhood or sudden divorce, the expenses fall on these wives who are not prepared to face this new life. Levirate, which is used to keep the wife and control the deceased’s fortune, is a real problem. Everyone wants their share. This deprives these women and forces them into a life of begging and accusing look of society.

The prejudices of society

If she decides to stay alone, she is labelled a promiscuous woman. This humiliation drives most of them to immigration, because remarks about the absence of men in their lives are hurtful. Should they flee their country because they are divorced or widowed? What happened in their lives is beyond their control. People need to accept this and avoid making judgements that hurt this category of people.

Conclusion

The way widow or divorced women are viewed and judged is inhumane. The mentality towards them must change, because no one is immune from a similar situation. Giving them the opportunity to restore their mental health and allow them to heal from their injuries and traumas is the best thing to do.