Mozambique prohibits legal recognition of polygamous unions, yet there are no legal restrictions against the practice itself, which has been reported to be quite widespread in the coastal country.
[1] As of 2019, it was estimated that about nearly 20% of married women aged 15–49 are in polygynous unions.
[2] The first wife, called the "senior wife" enjoys more recognition, not only because she is legally recognized, but also due to the long-standing traditions of Mozambique, that give her a higher rank than junior wives; and a higher bride price is paid for the senior wife.
[2]