The unspoken crisis: Implications of rising trend of incest on Tanzanian societies

Dar es Salaam. For many parents, the idea that their children, living under the same roof, could engage in a romantic relationship is nearly inconceivable.

However, the reality is starkly different. A disturbing trend of incestuous relationships is gaining momentum in Tanzanian society.

This issue transcends the traditional bounds of blood relations, extending to family members, and even to the most unexpected of pairings, such as a father and child, all of whom are traditionally considered mahrams—those with whom marriage is prohibited.

A Shocking Case

On August 14, 2024, a case in Maswa District Court, Simiyu Region, shocked the nation. Mussa Shija (32) was sentenced to 20 years in prison, while Hollo Shija received a 30-year sentence for engaging in a sexual relationship with a blood relative.

The court revealed that the two individuals had been in a romantic relationship, cohabiting as husband and wife for over five years and even having a child together.

This case has ignited a debate about how such relationships could even come to be, challenging the societal norms and perceptions surrounding incest.

A report by the Tanzania Police Force, published in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics shows that Tanzania reported cases of incest in 2023, with Arusha Region leading in the number of cases.

The report also highlighted that 68 children were affected, with Tanga Region having the highest number of incest cases involving children—35 in total, with 34 being female and one male.

Community Perspectives

Despite the statistics, anecdotal evidence suggests that incest is a pressing issue in many communities.

One source from a local community shared, "In our family, we discovered that children of our two uncles (one for the fathers’ elder brother and one for the younger brother) had a romantic relationship, starting from when one was in primary school and the other in secondary school.

Even after being separated by sending one of them abroad for studies, their insistence on their feelings persisted."

Another source revealed a distressing situation: "My niece became pregnant by her stepfather's son.

My sister discovered this and quickly arranged for an abortion to avoid family shame."

Modernisation or westernization?

Sheikh Khamis Mataka from the Muslims Council of Tanzania, attributes these problems to modern parenting failures and the influence of globalization.

"Today’s parents often provide for their children’s needs without genuinely parenting them. They treat their children like livestock, providing only food, shelter and education.

This neglect of true parenting duties has contributed to these issues," he said.

He further explains that globalization exposes children to inappropriate content beyond their maturity level, which they may experiment with, including relationships with relatives.

"This is why Islam insists on separating children by gender once they reach puberty to avoid such risks."

Psychological Insights

Psychologist Jacob Kilimba sheds light on the psychological aspects behind incestuous relationships.

"Children lack guidance and may not understand the biological aspects of sexual development.

When they see romantic or sexual behavior in media without proper context, they may experiment with those behaviors themselves."

Kilimba emphasizes the need for parents to provide guidance on physical and emotional changes and to discuss boundaries openly.

"Children need proper guidance to understand and control their emotions and behaviors.

Without it, they may misinterpret what they see and engage in harmful practices."

Legal Framework

Tanzanian law clearly prohibits incest. According to Sections 158 (1) (b) and 160 of the Penal Code, engaging in sexual relations with a blood relative is a criminal offense.

Men and women found guilty of such acts face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or a minimum of 30 years in prison for women who engage in incest.

Health Implications

The health repercussions of incest are severe, particularly for female victims who may face forced abortions to hide family shame.

Dr. Eliya Kwiyamba, a gynecologist, notes that many unwanted pregnancies result from incestuous relationships and often lead to unsafe abortions.

"These cases are prevalent in hospitals where we treat complications from unsafe abortions.

The challenge is compounded by the stigma and secrecy surrounding these issues."

Addressing the rising trend of incest in Tanzanian society requires a multifaceted approach.

It is crucial for parents to engage in meaningful parenting, educate their children about emotional and physical changes, and foster an environment where such issues can be openly discussed.

As society grapples with these challenges, it is vital for all stakeholders—families, communities, and policymakers—to work together to prevent further tragedies and uphold moral and legal standards.