Powerful Essays - In Her Words: African Women's Perspectives on Gender Equality

Powerful Essays – In Her Words: African Women’s Perspectives on Gender Equality

“In Her Words” is a big conversation starter. African women have come a long way but there is so much further to go. Books like this are vital for Africans, non-Africans and those seeking to understand feminism in Africa. It will also add to an already rigorous body of writing about this topic. While these essays promote a courageous and bird’s eye view of African women on the African continent, most of the writers agree that collective acceptance and solidarity is best achieved by promoting diversity even while fighting for the same cause.

The Event: MACFEST 2021 - The Black Queens of Islam

The Event: MACFEST 2021 – The Black Queens of Islam

This event celebrates Black (African & Afro-Caribbean) Muslim women who were trailblazer scholars, academics, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, warriors and artists. Through his talk, Ismael challenges the ignorance, misconceptions and negative perceptions in society.

Hajiya Gambo Sawaba: Activist, Philantropist and the Most Jailed Politician in Nigeria

Hajiya Gambo Sawaba: Activist, Philanthropist and the Most Imprisoned Politician in Nigeria

In the early years of her activism, many women in northern Nigeria observed purdah, a form of social seclusion, Gambo went from house-to-house to speak to them. This displeased the Native Authority in Kano and, in 1952, she was hauled before the conservative Alkali (Magistrates) Court, on charges of “drawing out women who were in purdah”. The court sentenced her to three months in prison; the first of 16 prison sentences she would serve during her lifetime.

The Black Women of Tichit: Caravan Leaders and Saharan Scholars

The Black Women of Tichit: Caravan Leaders and Saharan Scholars

Through their activities, they brought a lot of revenue to Tichit and enriched many families. This was perhaps the reason for the popular Mauritanian proverb, “The woman is the man’s trousers” (Limra’ sirwal al-rajul), for it was a testament to the fact that the women of Tichit were providers and protectors for their husbands and, by extension, their family.

Centring Historical Black Muslim Women: Nana Asma’u Bint Usman Dan Fodio

The rule of Usman Dan Fodio was revolutionary, improving the status of women and ensuring that they had equal rights as their male counterparts. Little wonder Nana Asma’u, his daughter became the epitome of women’s liberation at the time. West African Muslims glorify her, celebrate her efforts in expanding the rights of women to intellectualism and to active participation in the affairs of society, reasserting rights that had been selfishly snatched away in preceding generations.