In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the issue of inheritance is often at the heart of debates, particularly when it comes to eldest daughters. While the testimonies of the latter have often been highlighted, the women’s desk went to meet the boys, often designated as the main beneficiaries of inheritances.
Interviews conducted this Monday, August 19, with young men living in Kinshasa reveal a nuanced perception on the issue of the inheritance of eldest daughters. While some are more open to the idea of equality between children in matters of succession, others still adhere to ancestral traditions that favor sons.
« In our country, it is the eldest son who inherits.“, confides Jean-Paul, 25, originally from Katanga. ” It’s been like this forever and I don’t see why it would change.« .
Ben Kalombo, 26, from Kabeya Kamwanga, is often under significant social pressure to perpetuate family traditions. Friends, relatives and sometimes even parents urge him to defend his rights as the eldest son.
« My uncles always told me that inheritance was reserved for men. It’s a little complicated to question what they taught me.. »
Patrick Bishisha, 28, from South Kivu, seems open to change. Influenced by the media, school and international exchanges, he is increasingly aware of issues of equality between men and women.
« JI think it is unfair that girls are deprived of their share of inheritance. They have as many rights as we do. It is a question of justice. We must review these old practices.” he believes. ” My elder sister has always been there for me, she deserves to be recognized and have her share of the inheritance. Things need to change. It would be unfair to deprive an elder sister of her right to inheritance, especially if she has contributed to the well-being of the family.«
« I am torn“, admits Hervé, 25 years old. ” On the one hand, I think my sister should have the same rights as me, but on the other hand, I’m afraid of what others will say. The hardest part of this fight is going against the will of the parents. They have their own values and their own ideas about inheritance.«
(re)read: When it comes to inheritance, girls and boys are far from being in the same boat (walkman)
These young people also seem ready to play a leading role in changing mentalities.We have the power to change things«, affirms Patrick Bishisha. « By talking with our parents and siblings, we can help build a more just and equitable society.«
If mentalities are changing, Rodrigue Ngandu, 30 years old and originally from Greater Kasai, notes for his part that many obstacles remain:
– Fear of change: some fear that equality in inheritance will weaken families
– Lack of dialogue: discussions about inheritance are often taboo within families
– Economic inequalities: boys often have more opportunities to access education and employment, which strengthens their position.
The testimonies collected from young men reveal a complexity of perceptions around the question of inheritance. While traditions are still anchored, a new generation open to ideas of equality is emerging. However, there is still a long way to go before eldest daughters can fully enjoy their rights in matters of inheritance.
/actualité.cd
2024-08-19 19:10:16
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