Mozambique prohibits legal recognition of polygamous unions, yet there are no legal restrictions against the practice itself, which has been reported to be quite widespread in the coastal country.[1] As of 2019, it was estimated that about nearly 20% of married women aged 15–49 are
in polygynous unions.[2] The first wife, called the "senior wife" enjoys more recognition, not only because she is legally recognized, but also due to the long-standing traditions of Mozambique, that give her a higher rank than junior wives; and a higher bride price is paid for the senior wife.[2]

References

  1. ^ Mwareya, Ray (5 July 2016). "Widows without sons in Mozambique accused of sorcery and robbed of land". Reuters. Retrieved 30 December 2016. Although polygamy is prohibited in Mozambique there is no punishment. Across the country, nearly a third of married women are thought to be in polygamous marriages, according to a NORAD survey.
  2. ^ a b Jansen, Natalie; Agadjanian, Victor (March 2020). "Polygyny and Intimate Partner Violence in Mozambique". Journal of Family Issues. 41 (3): 338–358. doi:10.1177/0192513x19876075. PMC 7845931. PMID 33518874.
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