Matrilineal Succession in Cameroon: Seed of Social Ills and Underdevelopment

Abstract

This research on matrilineal succession in Cameroon aims at showing how matrilineal succession in Cameroon causes socio-economic backwardness. The mixed method of research was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Results from the study shows that the rationale for practising matrilineal succession by some tribes in Cameroon was to promote consanguineous succession. However, this type of succession brought untold sufferings to the people who practised it. Most widows were abandoned by the successors who mostly deprived them of the wealth left behind by their husbands. This has brought great sufferings to widows and their children. In addition, matrilineal succession discourages many men from saving, investing in businesses and acquiring real estate as they know that upon their death, their wives and children will not benefit from their wealth.