The Widows Lot — a Remedy?: The Application of Spoilation Orders in Customary Succession

Abstract

Reform is required in many areas of the law in Zimbabwe, particularly so in matters affecting family law and succession. However, the process of amending the law is often slow, particularly where change goes to the very root of the social system. Pending change, therefore there is a need to ensure that the rights of individual as they exist under current law are vigorously enforced and protected. Even if radical amendment of the law is implemented, the problem of enforcement and protection of rights will persist. Methods of enforcement may be written into amending legislation but the addition of criminal penalties to an already dispute fraught intra- family situation is often more a hindrance in attaining a resolution"than a help.