Unions "Come and stay" or cohabitations without marriage in Africa

In many African societies, "to be an adult is above all to be married, to be a mother, to be a father (...) so initiation is largely a preparation for marriage. The duties of the wife are explained and specified to the girls, the sense of paternal responsibilities is inculcated in the boys" (Maquet, 1967: 68-70). The initiation into the demands of married life represents the high point of adult life when the statutes and symbols of marriage are transmitted. Strong recommendations are made using proverbs to promote marriage and customs. The importance of learning how to behave in society, in the couple and with the in-laws is a guarantee of marital harmony and development. Men and women must listen to their elders, because the future conduct of the household, the children and the relationship with the family network will depend on the advice given.