WIDOWHOOD RITES AMONG THE TALENSI OF THE UPPER EAST REGION

Abstract

In many parts of the world, widowhood rites are widely believed to be practices that a bereaved spouse has to go through upon becoming a widow. It is a period in which a woman transitions from her marital status as a wife to a widow in the family and community.Different societies attach different customs and values to widowhood, and these have a strong influence on how it is experienced. The study therefore sought to examine the performance and effects of widowhood rites among the Talensi of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The survey employed both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in the gathering of data. These involved the administration of sixty questionnaire, ten key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The study revealed that 98.4% of widows undertook widowhood rites under the traditional widowhood rites; 62% of the widows undertook the rites said the performance of widowhood rites was harmful; 50% of the widows had their farm lands confiscated; 15% not supported by anybody and have no peace of mind and 13% had no recognition in the community. The following recommendations were made.Resourcing and empowerment of the National and Regional Houses of Chief to continuously review the traditional practices including widowhood rites; strengthen the capacity of relevant state agencies with the mandate to ensure social protection for widows. The government programme on Livelihood Empowerment againstPoverty (LEAP) be expanded to cover all non-working widows.This will enhance their livelihood and upkeep of widows and therefore protect them against exploitation and violence.