IGBO AND SENEGALESE FUNERALS: INTERCULTURAL RELATIONS IN DEATH PHASE OF RITES OF PASSAGE

Abstract

This study provides the first in-depth understanding of responses to death, funeral care and family relations in Igbo land and Senegal. In Igbo land and Senegal, the loss of a close adult relative is a significant life transition that almost everyone experiences at some point in the life course and which may have a range of material, social and emotional consequences for children and families. Death and funeral rites in African are deeply rooted in the cultural beliefs, traditions and indigenous religions of the Africans. They are guided by Africans’ view of existence after the deceased ancestor. The research aimed to investigate the material and emotional significance of a death of a close male adult relative. It also aimed to explore how the death and funeral of a close relative impacts on the family identities, caring relations and responsibilities. Very few studies have explored the funeral responsibilities of the family in Igbo land and Senegal, which this study sought to address. A diverse sample of thirty families’ interviews were conducted and semi-structured interviews were also conducted with 15 local and religious leaders, non-governmental organizations on social protection at national level. The largest number of interviewees had lost a husband or father. Most of these relatives had died in middle or older age. Igbo and Senegal traditional funeral rites are based on what kind of death a person had, and to the status that the person had on earth.