Engendering Change through Egalitarian Movements: The African Experience

Abstract

In much of modern Africa, authoritarian rule, capitalist economic systems and Western-style patriarchal structures bolstered by persistent economic dependence on former colonial powers and their allies have replaced the colonial system. Economic restructuring and globalization exacerbate the situation. A study of women’s egalitarian movements therefore must recognize the domination of countries as well as of people. When women organize to challenge structures of domination in Africa, their agenda extends beyond concerns about gender equality.