In recent years, Ghana has witnessed a significant cultural shift in the dynamics of relationships, particularly concerning marriage and infidelity.

A striking statistic has emerged: approximately 80% of divorced women in Ghana are reportedly engaged in relationships as “side chicks” to married men.

This phenomenon raises important questions about societal norms, gender roles, and the implications for family structures in Ghanaian society.

To comprehend the rise of this trend, it is essential to look at the societal and cultural context in which it is occurring. Ghanaian society has traditionally placed a high value on marriage, often viewing it as a cornerstone of social stability.

However, changing economic conditions, urbanization, and shifting gender roles have contributed to a reevaluation of these traditional values.

Popular radio presenter, Nana Romeo has claimed that about 80% of divorced women have become the side chicks of married men.

In a video spotted on Instagram, Nana Romeo explained that most married women leave their marriages due to their husbands’ promiscuity, only to become homewreckers themselves.

“The sad thing is that in this world, about 80% of divorced women become the side chicks of married men. The reason why some women leave their marriages is because their husbands cheated; they were not faithful.”
Nana Romeo

He expressed confusion over why women would end their marriages because of their husbands’ dishonesty, only to become the reason some men cheat on their wives.

“Funny enough, the same women who left their marriages because of their husbands’ infidelity also now become the reason why men cheat on their wives. It’s difficult to understand if you analyze this issue. It doesn’t sit well; only the ladies can provide an explanation for this.”
Nana Romeo

Meanwhile, divorce has become increasingly common in society, with adultery being a primary factor. Some lawyers in Ghana have linked the rise in divorce rates to infidelity based on the number of cases brought to them.

The increase in divorce rates in Ghana is attributed to various factors, including financial stress, infidelity, and changing attitudes towards marriage. As women gain more independence and economic power, they are more likely to leave unsatisfactory marriages.

Many divorced women face financial challenges and societal stigma, which leads them to seek relationships with married men who offer financial stability or support. In a country where economic opportunities are limited, these relationships seem appealing.

The concept of “side chicks” has gained a degree of acceptance in Ghanaian culture, often portrayed in media and popular music. This normalization leads to a perception that such relationships are not only common but also desirable.

Role of Gender Dynamics

The dynamics of gender play a crucial role in this phenomenon. Traditionally, men have held more power in relationships, and this power imbalance often extends to marital infidelity.

In many cases, married men seek outside relationships as a means of asserting their masculinity or fulfilling unmet desires without the same societal repercussions that women face.

While the term “side chick” carries negative connotations, many women in these relationships feel empowered by their choices. They often view their involvement with married men as a way to reclaim agency in a society that has historically marginalized them.

In handling “side chicks”, mostly, some women resort to violence by either attacking the said side chicks sleeping with their husbands, or fighting with their husbands, which ends up ruining the marriage completely in some cases.

However, a Nigerian female pastor, Funke Felix-Adejumo said troubling oneself because an unfaithful husband decided to sleep with other women outside of marriage is unnecessary.

“Why must you kill yourself because one stupid girl slept with your husband?” Funke Felix-Adejumo asked

In a video circulating online, the woman of God is seen telling her congregation that married women should remain calm and unbothered when other women share their husbands with them.

The rise of side chick relationships has profound implications for family structures in Ghana. The traditional family unit is increasingly being challenged, leading to a redefinition of what constitutes a family.

The involvement of divorced women with married men complicates issues related to children and custody. Children from previous marriages find themselves caught in complex family dynamics, leading to emotional and psychological challenges.

The perception of women involved with married men is harsh and judgmental. Society often stigmatizes these women, labeling them as “homewreckers” despite the complexities of their situations.

The statistic that 80% of divorced women in Ghana are now side chicks to married men highlights a significant shift in relationship dynamics within the country.

While it provides some women with a sense of agency and financial support, it also raises important questions about the future of family structures and the emotional well-being of those involved.

As Ghana continues to navigate these changes, society must engage in open discussions about relationships, infidelity, and the implications for women and families.

Understanding the complexities behind this trend leads to more supportive environments for individuals navigating the challenges of love, loss, and new beginnings.