An exploration of the benefits and challenges for women in inheritance matters if men write wills nominating their wives and daughters as heirs and beneficiaries: A study in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This research focuses on the impact of inheritance laws on women and girls in Tanzania. The study was done to explore the benefits and challenges for women in inheritance matters if men write wills nominating their wives and daughters as heirs and beneficiaries. This was based on the fact that inheritance laws are discriminatory against women and therefore suggests will writing as the good option for men to take before their death so that to leave their family protected from relatives who tend to grab property from the widows and their children. The research further reveals the problems encountered by women when accessing justice in court due to existing complexities procedures and discriminatory provisions under the customary law and Islamic law. These limit women to get their shares after the death of their husband and perpetuate their economic dependence.