Inside West Africa's Secret Sexual Revolution

Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Senegal – when it comes to love and sex, these African countries are caught between tradition and modernity. The Ivory Coast is full of contrasts. It promotes women’s rights, but taboos and persecution of minorities are common. Up until recently, men took the lead in seduction. Now young women are freer to have casual relationships, called “mougoupan” – a hook up without emotional attachment. Madoca says it’s a way to claim independence. It’s a sexual revolution, but 13-year-old girls are still taught to be submissive. We also met activists fighting against forced marriages in the DRC, where it’s not uncommon for a 12-year-old girl to be married and pregnant. Weddings in Ivory Coast are influenced by Western traditions. We meet Cynthia getting married in a white bridal gown with bridesmaids. But the tradition of dowry persists, in money or goods. Polygamy remains common. It’s illegal in Ivory Coast, but accepted in Senegal. Alexis is in love with two women and tries to avoid jealousy. For him, polygamy serves an economic purpose, helping with work and the household. This documentary was produced by Tony Comiti Productions and directed by Julien Boluen & Charles Comiti. It was first released in 2022. ------ We have the stories that global corporations don't want you to know. Our channel is home to award-winning investigations, current affairs and revealing documentaries that challenge unchecked global powers and give you the real, human stories behind the headlines. Want to understand more about our world? Want to delve beyond news headlines and understand global issues more deeply? Subscribe to DISPATCH for all this and more. Make sure to hit notifications to never miss a new release!