Social Security in Kenya

by: Jennifer Kumar

I doubt Kenyans have social security numbers. It may be possible in some places in Kenya, people do not know their own birthdays. It may not be part of their culture.

So, what is the social security I am referring to? It is polygamy.

I guess the Christian missionaries in Kenya will continue to ban this practice. On some levels it is a good practice (not for me, but for them), and on some levels it needs updating.

Why do I think it's good? A wife having to raise kids all alone without help is challenging. Ask any mom in the modern countries, and she'll tell you she wants a break. Imagine living in a compound with other wives and their kids, you can at least go to the bathroom in privacy! Of course, living in Kenyan villages is also tough work- hauling water long distances, farming, caring for house and children- the more help the better!

Why it's not good? Well two reasons. Ironically, I endorse this for the woman and not the man! What pressure the man must have in Kenya! Firstly, he needs to provide dowry, then on top of that provide for many wives and even more children! Now if that is not stressful, what is?

But, what happens when the man of the house dies? In [some sections] of Kenyan society, the man's surviving wives - now widows- are 'inherited' by his brother or a male family member. Wow! Increasing stress for the man of the house! But, what does that mean?

The women become members of the household in all ways- even physical intimacy between the new 'wives' and the man of the house commences. Often times, it is thought this is how AIDS is spread, because birth control is non-existent or not utilized.

It is said that presently as more people follow Christianity and polygamy is slowly leaving the social structure, that women don't want to participate in this social security system anymore. This is easier said than done. If a woman is educated and a wage earner (as in most societies) she has a better chance of living without the extended family as an 'inherited' wife in her widowhood.

I am not sure what this means for widows in general. What is the status of widows? Are they accepted socially? Are attitudes changing? Do widows in the countryside fare differently than in the cities? Do widows in different spiritual traditions in Kenya fare differently?

I found this fascinating. To read more about Kenyan culture, pick up the book Kenya (Modern World Nations) by Joseph R. Oppong and Esther D. Oppong. In fact, this post is based on information on pages 52-55. It's a kid's book I think, but I like the way it is written. An enjoyable read.