Habiba
Cameroon, 17 years old
It is Habiba’s wedding day and like many 17 year olds she is excited by the romance and status of being married. Her 39 year old groom is her own choice but family and cultural pressures are still evident in her decision to give up school and get married. In the Muslim quarter of Yoande, Cameroon, under age marriage is common, especially at this time of year. We watch as Habiba goes through a tide of emotion during the four day celebration. The women give her advice for the wedding night and married life while the men exchange the dowry. Meanwhile Habiba prays her marriage will be happy and not one of the violent or unhappy ones that she hears about.
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