ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the historical evolution of polygyny in Africa, including its religious origins, and then it explores the living realities of women living in polygynous marriages to analyze whether polygyny currently empowers or disempowers women. Polygyny is an ancient practice found in many religious traditions, including Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. It is currently practised in over 850 societies in the world, many in Africa. The health implications of polygyny for women are overwhelming. These effects can be roughly grouped into two interrelated categories: mental, and the physical health. Polygyny has been a central feature of customary marriage in Africa. It has served a beneficial purpose, and, as a religious practice and a part of African culture, should not be lightly discarded. Churches can also facilitate women organizing themselves into groups. Churches in Africa provide an important role in the education of women, both formally and informally.
