Force-feeding Culture (Leblouh Tradition)

The severe terrain of Mauritania leads many people to live in poor, secluded settlements that reinforce rigid social norms and traditions. Various practices, including slavery, continue to harm the country's and its people's potential. Leblouh is one such tradition that has a negative impact on Mauritanian women and girls.

Obesity is a symbol of tremendous wealth and rank in Mauritania, which is located in Northwest Africa. Families started force-feeding girls at an early age as a result of this custom. They hope that by the age of 12, the girl will weigh at least 200 pounds. This increases her chances of finding a suitable husband. The age-old practice of Leblouh, or force-feeding girls for the purpose of beauty and marriage, in Mauritania continues to deprive its women of some of their most basic human rights.

The preference for heavier women is said to have originated centuries ago among the Moors, an ethnic group of mixed Arab and Amazigh ancestry that accounts for approximately three-fourths of the country's population. Members of the ancient community thought that men with huge wives were wealthy and could afford to feed them well despite the harsh desert lifestyle.