How are the following groups represented in the documentary and what is the intended impact on the spectator?

Women –

Shown to face struggle in a patriarchal society, women are represented as being strong and independent. This can be found in the cases of the 2 women who wanted independence from their abuse relationships and earned it through a tough legal process. This also can be seen with Vera Ngessa, the Judge. By having a leading role in the decisions over issues such as marriage disputes and cases of abuse, this challenges the ideas of what usually would be considered a male job by having a independent in her community she helps provide opportunities for women.

Men –

Men in Sisters in law, are represented as being patriarchal and a cause of a lot of problems within Kumba town. With a large Muslim community, men provide reason for their actions through the sharia law, however are not forgiven in the court. Examples of men and their actions can be seen with the reverend, who is accused of beating his wife. Another, a man from Nigeria who raped a little girl.

Children –

Children are often represented as neglected and abused, with 2 such examples being the girl who was raped and Manka, a 6 year-old who was abused by her aunty, It can be scene that little is done in the way of safeguarding these children. Growing up in a poor environment, where some caretakers have little to no education we can see that in contrast to the Judge and her child, who is educated how the treatment of a child differs.

Muslim People –

Although making up a majority of the population in Kumba Town, their are represented as suppressed due to restrictions held by religious marital laws. An example can be seen with Ladi, a mother who wishes to divorce her abusive husband, in attempts to get away from him she visited her parents without his permission, being married on early in her life she did not have time for education and wishes to do so through leaving the marriage.