MERCY ANGWI SOH

Marriage and the family constitute the foundation of social organization and cultural continuity in every society. Among the Meta people of Cameroon, marriage is not merely a union between two individuals but a communal and cultural institution that upholds traditional values, kinship ties, and social responsibilities. This study, titled “Marriage and the Family: A Critical Study of Marital Rights among the Meta of Cameroon,” critically examines the nature, scope, and implications of marital rights and obligations as practiced within the Meta community. The research explores how marital rights such as dowry, inheritance, child custody, and the roles of spouses reflect the cultural norms and gender dynamics of the Meta people. Using a qualitative approach that combines ethnographic observation and oral interviews, the study analyzes how traditional beliefs interact with modern legal and religious perspectives on marriage. It also investigates the impact of social change, globalization, and Christianity on the traditional marital system of the Meta. The findings reveal both the enduring strength of Meta customs and the emerging challenges that threaten the stability of family structures. The study concludes that understanding marital 10 rights within their cultural context is essential for promoting gender equity, social harmony, and cultural preservation in the Meta society.