Lucille Guder "Aida"

Aida told me how hard it was for her when a second woman moved in. The husband would no longer be able to take care of her and their children properly. Her home was suddenly downsized. Aida and many other feminists in Senegal are demanding that the respective laws be changed. Aida is not against polygamy in principle, the problem is that only men are allowed to marry more often. If she wanted to have a second husband - she would not be allowed. But Aida said she would definitely not want that - one could see it in the men, who usually do not find happiness either. Often the women within the family become allies, and with each new woman who moves in, life becomes more complicated.  

According to a patriarchal law, the bride and groom should decide whether they want to live monogamously or polygamously - once made, the decision cannot be reversed. Yet many couples would have preferred a divorce - such a family is not only financially but also emotionally demanding. They live under one roof with a person with whom harmonious co-existence is practically impossible. Often sharing the household with more than 10 children. Aida has expressed clear opposition to legal polygyny in Senegal. These laws are first of all a discrimination of women - but in the end a huge disadvantage for the entire society."