“Why me” The Cry of widows living in Mzuzu city, Malawi

This study aimed at exploring the lived experiences of widows in an urban area of Mzuzu. Although limited in number, research on widowhood has been conducted in isolated locations. The study was done to understand how widows endure social-cultural difficulties through their lived experiences while living in the city. Data were gathered from ten (n = 10) participants using in-depth interviews. Both purposive and snowball sampling approaches were used to recruit study participants. Data were analyzed using Riesman’s approach of thematic narrative analysis. Findings reveal experiences of violence, deprivation, social stigma, and psychological trauma among the widows. This study suggests the need for religious leaders to speak out against the malpractice and the judiciary, media and civil rights organizations to strengthen public education regarding malpractice.