In the United Republic of Tanzania, some 500 older women are murdered each year following accusations against them of witchcraft. The problem is particularly serious in Sukumaland in the north of the country. Large numbers of older women are driven from their homes and communities in fear of being accused of witchcraft, and end up living destitute in urban areas. Belief in witchcraft has existed in Sukumaland for centuries, though the violence surrounding it has increased sharply in recent years. This may in part be due to increased poverty caused by too many people living off too little land, as well as an overall lack of.
