Health chronicle: Changing the health and economic situation of widows

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Extract from the article: World Widows' Day is celebrated every June 23. It is a reminder of a reality too often relegated to the background, that of the thousands of women who, after the loss of their spouse, have to face alone a world that is often harsh, unjust and...

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World Widows' Day is celebrated every June 23. It is a reminder of a reality too often relegated to the background, that of the thousands of women who, after the loss of their spouse, have to face alone a world that is often harsh, unjust and silent to their pain. While mourning is universal, the condition of the widow in Togo remains marked by practices, deprivation and abandonment that seriously compromise her well-being, particularly her physical and mental health.

Although data remains limited, it is estimated that there are around 258 million widows in the world, and one in ten lives in extreme poverty. The Togolese widow, especially in rural areas, has not only lost a spouse, she has often lost economic support, social status and protection. Very quickly, she finds herself having to take on everything - children, house, field or business - and sometimes without resources or support. Faced with these overwhelming responsibilities, health becomes a distant concern, even a luxury. And yet, the consequences are there. Many widows suffer in silence from high blood pressure, chronic pain, osteoarthritis, gynaecological problems, or undiagnosed illnesses for lack of the means to consult a doctor.

Poor nutrition, inadequate housing and repeated episodes of violence, combined with lack of access to healthcare, have a negative impact on the well-being of the family.

Mental health: the taboo behind the smiles

Mental suffering is an even more ignored aspect. How do these widows cope with the loneliness, stigmatization and humiliation sometimes inflicted in the name of widowhood rites? Many internalize all this, to the point of sinking into depression, anxiety and even thoughts of giving up. And in a society where “talking about emotions” remains marginal, these women remain silent, until their bodies or minds give out.

Widows as agents of resilience

Widows are not to be pitied - quite the contrary. They are pillars of families, entrepreneurs, educators and strong citizens. But if they are to continue to play this essential role, it's time to guarantee them real rights and equitable access to healthcare.

They need easier access to primary healthcare, such as free or subsidized consultations, mobile screening in rural areas, and integration into universal health coverage.

Structured psychosocial support is also needed, such as community-based psychological support, and training for intermediaries who are sensitized to bereavement issues.

Support for economic empowerment through training, microfinance and the inclusion of widows in women's entrepreneurship and financial education programs.

Thinking differently about solidarity

As a society, what do we do for those who have lost everything and yet continue to fight ? It's not enough to show them compassion once a year. We need to integrate their specific needs into development plans, health policies and community priorities.

Widows' health is the health of entire families. By giving them the means to care for themselves, to speak out and to rebuild their lives, we are building a fairer, more humane and stronger society.

Raymond DZAKPATA