Shattering Shackles: Confronting Patriarchy and Female Genital Mutilation in Africa
Patriarchy and Traditional Practices in Africa
Africa, a continent teeming with diversity and culture, is frequently perceived through the lens of tradition and patriarchal norms. While these views may not encapsulate the entire reality, they hold some truth. In numerous African regions, patriarchal societies dominate, with men typically serving as the primary breadwinners and heads of households. The notion of gender equality remains elusive in these areas, as women are often unaware of their rights or the injustices they endure. Daily struggles leave little room for contemplating freedoms and rights, making the fight for equality an ongoing challenge.
The Plight of Women in Africa
Women in Africa confront numerous challenges from a young age. Girls are conditioned to be hardworking, resilient, physically strong, and submissive—traits deemed necessary for marriage, which is often seen as a form of employment. The practice of buying brides is not uncommon, and marriages are typically arranged by parents seeking to strengthen their household or gain financial stability.
Once married, women bear the brunt of domestic responsibilities, including:
- Childbirth and rearing
- Cooking over wood fires
- Fetching water
- Tending to crops regardless of weather conditions
- Maintaining the household
Men, on the other hand, engage in trade or wage labor, earning the much-needed income.
Female Genital Mutilation: A Harsh Reality
One of the most severe manifestations of patriarchy in Africa is female genital mutilation (FGM). This practice, prevalent in many tribes, involves the removal of the clitoris and labia minora. FGM is considered a rite of passage and a prerequisite for marriage. Women who refuse to undergo this procedure face ostracization, losing all ties with their community.
The procedure is typically carried out by an elder woman using a single blade, with no regard for hygiene or medical safety. The purpose of FGM is not hygienic but rooted in patriarchal traditions that seek to control women’s sexuality. The belief is that women should not be distracted by sexual desires from their daily duties.
Economy, Education, and Healthcare
In more urbanized regions, women have access to some modern amenities and opportunities. However, due to economic downturns, the level of progress is minimal. Women in these areas may have more freedom, including the ability to engage in premarital sexual relationships. However, the lack of affordable contraceptives leads to unwanted pregnancies and health complications.
Education is another area of concern. Even basic education is not free or mandatory, leading many families to forgo schooling for their daughters. Girls are often seen as extra hands for household chores, and their education is sacrificed for immediate economic needs. Higher education remains a distant dream for most African women.
The Fight for Equality
The struggle for gender equality in Africa is complex. While there are regions like the Umoja tribe in Kenya, where women have established a matriarchal society, these are exceptions rather than the norm. Most African women continue to live under patriarchal rule, with little legal or societal support.
Non-governmental organizations aiming to improve women’s lives often face challenges. Their efforts to provide financial independence through microloans and fair laws are met with resistance. The deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and economic disparities make the fight for equality an uphill battle. For more information on the fight against FGM, you can visit World Health Organization.
