The Challenges and Vulnerabilities of Widowhood with Mbangiseni Dzivhani

Nongcebo McKenzie: The Podcast

The passing away of a spouse or partner is one of life's most painful experiences. When that is coupled with cultural practices that add to to the pain and loss, it can be a debilitating experience. On this episode Nongcebo Vukile McKenzie is in conversation with Mbangiseni Dzivhani, the author of "The Widow’s Room : A Journey from Cultural Oppression to Freedom". Mbangiseni Dzivhani shares her experience as a young mother and widow, fighting for her life, as well as her journey to healing ad forgiveness.
Technical Editing : Sibusiso 'Dust' Nkosi
Studio: United Rhythms Studio
Host: Nongcebo Vukile McKenzie
The Widow’s Room : A Journey from Cultural Oppression to Freedom" by Mbangiseni Dzivhani
This book highlights the plight of women who are widows in the African cultures. It is a memoir reflecting on personal experiences of the author. The book exposes ill cultural practices, myths, traditions, beliefs and societal expectations towards women who are widows. The author highlights some of the harmful, cultural practices; physical and psychological trauma, and the disregard for widows’ legal and marital rights. It exposes isolation and exclusion of widows from decision making, property grabbing, arranged marriages and gross human rights violations of women who are widows. Furthermore, the book highlights the role of women in gross violation and abuse of other women who are widows in the name of culture and religion. This is a story about a woman who survived the worst experiences as a widow and managed to rebuild her life, succeeded in her career and became a powerful force in society to empower and support other women.