The Influence of Inheritance Systems on Poverty among HIV/AIDS Infected Widows, The Case of Shinyanga Town

Ambasa, Dorice Molly (2013) The Influence of Inheritance Systems on Poverty among HIV/AIDS Infected Widows, The Case of Shinyanga Town. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This dissertation examines the influence of inheritance systems on poverty among HIV/AIDS infected widows in Shinyanga town. The researcher's main objective was to explore the constraints that affect HIV/AIDS infected widows in accessing, possessing and owning property by examining the inheritance systems practiced in Shinyanga, Tanzania. To do this the researcher sought to identify the existing inheritance systems practiced in Shinyanga town,establish key constraints that affect HIV/AIDS infected widows in accessing and having the right to posses and own property and therefore suggest practical policy adjustments that can enhance HIV/AIDS widows' right to access, hold and own property. Social Systems theory accredited to Ludwing Von Bertalanffy was used in this study to analyse the influence of inheritance systems on poverty among HIV/AIDS infected widows in Shinyanga town. Purposive sampling was used to generate rich information on the subject through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The major finding of this research is that the existing and most dominant patriarchal inheritance system has failed to conform to the targets required within the larger social environment due to biased norms, values and cultural practices. The study concludes that although Tanzania's constitution on property and inheritance recognizes women's right to land and other properties, women still face serious problems in claiming and securing their rights due to harmful customary norms and practices.

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