Second wife becomes polygamy coach, helps women cope with challenges

Cairo: A self-described polygamy coach is shedding light on her controversial role, saying her mission is to support women navigating the emotional complexities of polygamous marriages.

Hafsa Rizqi, 31, an Algerian national and second wife herself, told Lebanese-owned Al Mashhad TV that she trains women to handle the psychological and social challenges that come with being in such relationships.

“I coach women through the difficult phases of polygamous life, and I also guide husbands on how to build a stable home filled with peace, happiness, and love,” she said.

Hafsa claims to be the Arab world’s first dedicated polygamy coach. She offers courses aimed at helping women free themselves from emotional pain and find empowerment and happiness within their marital framework.

She noted that most of her calients are second wives, a reflection, she says, of the increasing number of secret marriages. “Second wives often suffer from their husband’s limited presence and tension with the first wife,” she explained.

Hafsa believes that “a man can love two or more,” and said many women are convinced by her reasoning. Her coaching calendar is packed, with appointments reportedly fully booked for the next three to four months.

Currently studying psychology at a university in London, she draws on both academic knowledge and six years of personal experience in a polygamous marriage.

Her work has sparked a range of reactions. Critics accuse her of promoting polygamy, while supporters argue her courses offer much-needed psychological support to women already in such unions.

Under Islamic law, a man may marry up to four wives simultaneously, but only if he can treat them all justly. Otherwise, the Quran advises marrying just one.