Lived Experience of Youth Growing up in Polygamous Marriages at Ha-Makuya Village, Thulamela Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Rinae Norris Munyai ORCID ↗ · Recheal Nthangeni Mathungeni ORCID ↗
International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2026 · Vol. 8 / Issue 4 · 506-517
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Abstract
Polygamous marriages are a formally recognised family form within customary law in South Africa and specific cultural communities. However, little attention has been paid to the consequences of living in a polygamous family as a child. A study exploring the effects of Polygamous marriages on Youth Behaviour was conducted in the Ha-Makuya village, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study used a qualitative research approach to investigate the issue. The study used an exploratory research design to explore the topic. Participants were selected through a purposive sampling of six young people aged between 18 to 35 years from polygamous families in the Ha-Makuya village. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and then processed using thematic analysis. The results obtained showed that children in polygamous families face the difficulties associated with sibling rivalry, complex family dynamics, and stereotyping. However, they are adaptive and have developed coping mechanisms to counter these effects. The participants also said they needed more involvement from their fathers and the support of community-based programs. Beyond its sociocultural focus, the study offers insights into human capital development and community resilience in rural ecosystems, dimensions that influence long-term economic participation and youth empowerment. These findings are relevant for policymakers, educators, and social entrepreneurs designing youth-centred interventions in culturally diverse communities. The study recommends culturally sensitive programs, including school-based counselling and community partnerships, to strengthen youth well-being and contribute to sustainable local development.
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Rinae Norris Munyai
University of Venda
Recheal Nthangeni Mathungeni
University of Venda
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