Marriage

In Zimbabwe
Last Updated: Nov 24, 2025
My husband has 2 wives myself being the second wife. Before we met, he was married to the first wife under civil marriage solemnized under the new Marriages Act [Chapter 5:17], which replaced the former Marriage Act [Chapter 5:11] which is still the current situation between him and the first wife. There are no issues currently my husband, myself and the first wife get along no issues. The properties, eg, the house rural home that are all in my husbands name. We all live in one house together, when we go to the rural home we also go and stay under one roof as one family. If my husband passes on without a will or even with a will In terms of inheritance am I protected by law as I am his second wife? The whole family including my husbands relatives knows he has 2 wives. We have children together, I have 2 children with my husband the first wife has 3 children with him.

Lawyer Answers

Pretty Murove (Partner)

Pretty Murove (Partner)

Nov 24, 2025
Best Answer
If the marriage between the husband and his first wife is still in existence, you will not be recognised as a spouse for purposes of inheritance as your purported union to him is a nullity at law. Your children will, however, be entitled to an inheritance (provided that your husband dies without a will which stipulates otherwise).
Pretty Murove (Partner)

Pretty Murove (Partner)

Nov 24, 2025
If the marriage between the husband and his first wife is still in existence, you will not be recognised as a spouse for purposes of inheritance as your purported union to him is a nullity at law. Your children will, however, be entitled to an inheritance (provided that your husband dies without a will which stipulates otherwise).
ASK A FREE QUESTION

Free • Anonymous • Expert Lawyers

Need Personal Legal Help?

Connect with experienced lawyers in your area for personalized advice on your specific situation.

Free consultation • No obligation