Introduction
As we commemorate International Women's Day in 2024, the United Nations has chosen the theme: "Invest in women: Accelerate Progress". This theme evokes Bob Marley's timeless song "No Woman, No Cry," which underscores the indispensable role of women in human existence. Indeed, no one enters this world without the nurturing presence of a woman. Women serve as the backbone of progress at the individual, familial, communal, and national levels. However, it's also important to acknowledge that challenges and setbacks can arise, even to the point of premature death, without the support and empowerment of women. In light of this, I am compelled to discuss the vital topic titled "Empowering Women: Catalyst for Rapid Advancement." This discourse will shed light on the African society, particularly Nigeria, and its treatment of women.
African women and the patriarchal society
African societies, by and large, adhere to patriarchal norms. This term denotes a social system where men wield primary power and authority, relegating women to subordinate and marginalized roles. Within patriarchal frameworks, men typically dominate political, economic, and social spheres, while women encounter barriers to accessing resources, holding decision-making positions, and pursuing advancement opportunities. Throughout Africa, patriarchal structures have been deeply entrenched for centuries, permeating various societal facets. For instance, in numerous African cultures, men traditionally assume positions of authority within family units, communities, and institutional settings. This means that men often dictate decisions related to family affairs, financial matters, and community issues, while women's voices are frequently sidelined (Oyewumi and Oyeronke, 1997).
Research indicates that inheritance laws in various African societies have historically favoured male heirs over their female counterparts. These unwritten laws and customary practices prioritize the transfer of property and wealth to sons, perpetuating gender disparities and economic dependence among women (Kabeer, 1999). Moreover, gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue across Africa, claiming the lives of countless women. Many women in Africa, influenced by patriarchal norms, believe that marriage is a commitment for better or for worse, leading them to endure abusive relationships. Women who leave their husbands are often stigmatized as irresponsible or promiscuous, further perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Women and girls in Africa are frequently subjected to physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, with perpetrators often escaping accountability due to societal attitudes that normalize and justify violence against women (Jewkes, 2002). Additionally, women are often objectified and reduced to objects of sexual pleasure, a trend prevalent even in contemporary musical genres.
In the realm of politics, women in Africa face significant under-representation in leadership roles. Patriarchal barriers, encompassing discriminatory laws, cultural norms, and limited access to resources and education, hinder women's involvement in governance and decision-making processes (Tripp, 2015). Women who aspire to political positions encounter criticism not only from men but also from other women, particularly those adhering to traditional beliefs. These traditional views often label female politicians as irresponsible, divorcees, or lacking respect for their husbands. Moreover, patriarchal systems restrict women's access to education and economic opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Practices like early marriage and limited formal employment further impede women's ability to achieve economic independence and social mobility. These challenges are evident in various regions across Africa, including the northern part of Nigeria and traditional communities throughout the continent (Malhotra et al., 2002).
Effects of parochialism on Africa
The impact of patriarchal norms, deeply entrenched in many African societies, cannot be overstated when considering their effects on progress and equality, particularly for women. Patriarchalism, characterized by male superiority and dominance, poses significant barriers to gender equality across African nations. First and foremost, patriarchal systems perpetuate gender disparities, impeding women's access to education, employment, and decision-making roles. For example, in Nigeria, UNESCO highlights a notable gap in literacy rates between men and women, reflecting unequal opportunities in education (UNESCO, 2020). This disparity stems from the belief that men inherently possess superior knowledge and power compared to women. Consequently, there is a reluctance to invest in women's education, business ventures, and other aspects of their lives. African parents, particularly fathers, often view daughters as future wives whose primary loyalty will shift to their nuclear families upon marriage. As a result, societal investments tend to favor men over women.
This systemic bias perpetuates gender inequality and constrains women's opportunities for advancement across various spheres of life. In the realm of politics, women's representation, especially in leadership positions, remains notably low throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Despite ongoing efforts to promote gender equality, women hold only approximately 24% of parliamentary seats in the region (Inter-Parliamentary Union, 2021). For instance, in Nigeria, the disparity is evident. Out of the 109 senatorial seats in the 10th assembly, only three are occupied by females. Similarly, in the House of Representatives, only sixteen out of the 360 lawmakers are women, indicating a marginal increase compared to thirteen in the previous House (Iwok, 2023). Additionally, there has never been a female governor among the 36 states in Nigeria throughout the nation's 62-year history. Likewise, neither the position of President nor Vice President has been held by a woman in Nigeria.
These statistics underscore the significant underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics and highlight the persistent challenges women face in accessing leadership roles and participating fully in political processes. Secondly, patriarchal structures often serve as barriers that prevent women from accessing vital resources such as land and credit, thereby impeding their economic empowerment. Across many African countries, discriminatory land tenure systems severely restrict women's rights to land ownership, exacerbating poverty among women (World Bank, 2019). Moreover, gender-based violence, with domestic violence being particularly prevalent, remains pervasive in patriarchal societies, disproportionately affecting women. In South Africa, the high rates of domestic violence and femicide highlight the prevalence of gender-based violence, which is rooted in deeply ingrained patriarchal norms (Africa Check, 2021).
Intersectionality exacerbates the effects of patriarchalism, disproportionately impacting marginalized women. Women of color, indigenous women, and those living in poverty experience compounded inequalities due to intersecting forms of discrimination (Crenshaw, 1991). Patriarchal norms reinforce traditional gender roles, stifling cultural innovation and progress. In some African communities, women are expected to adhere strictly to rigid gender norms, which limits their agency and autonomy (Pambazuka News, 2019). Patriarchalism entrenched in African societies undoubtedly fuels gender inequality, political underrepresentation, economic marginalization, gender-based violence, cultural constraints, and intersecting oppressions. To confront these formidable challenges, concerted efforts are imperative to challenge patriarchal norms, advocate for gender equality, and cultivate inclusive societies where all individuals can flourish. For Africa, and particularly Nigeria, to chart a path towards positive transformation, it is crucial to prioritize collective investment in women across all spheres of life.
How then can this investment or empowerment be done?
Investing in women is paramount for the advancement and prosperity of African societies, Nigeria included. African and Nigerian leaders must prioritize ensuring equal access to education for girls and women across all levels. This entails offering scholarships, constructing schools in rural areas, and enacting policies to remove barriers to girls' education. In Nigeria, entities such as the Malala Fund champion girls' education through advocacy and financial support. It is essential to encourage similar organizations and initiatives to ensure universal access to basic education for all females, fostering intellectual engagement and empowerment.
Furthermore, programs and policies aimed at promoting women's economic participation should be actively implemented. This includes facilitating access to credit, providing entrepreneurship training, and creating job opportunities tailored to women's needs. For instance, the Central Bank of Nigeria's Microfinance Policy endeavors to enhance financial inclusivity, especially for women, by granting access to microfinance institutions. However, these initiatives should not remain mere declarations; they must be translated into tangible actions and periodically reviewed to address evolving needs and challenges. While the issue may appear to have been extensively discussed, it is imperative that we persist in advocating until tangible action is taken. Women's active involvement in politics and decision-making processes must be championed and supported by all. This can be achieved through the implementation of affirmative action policies, the provision of women's leadership training, and backing women's political campaigns. The Nigerian government's National Gender Policy, established by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs in 2006, seeks to amplify women's engagement in governance and decision-making roles.
The advocacy of this piece is for the enactment and rigorous enforcement of laws safeguarding women's rights. This includes legislation targeting gender-based violence, discrimination, and harmful cultural practices. Nigeria's Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, passed by the National Assembly in 2015, criminalizes various forms of violence against women, such as domestic abuse, female genital mutilation, and detrimental widowhood customs. Encouraging and promoting women's participation in STEM fields is also crucial. This can be achieved through initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and skill development opportunities. Organizations like W.TEC (Women's Technology Empowerment Centre) in Nigeria offer commendable programs aimed at equipping girls and women with digital skills and technology training, paving the way for their meaningful participation in STEM fields and beyond. It is imperative that immediate action be taken to cultivate community support and raise awareness about the significance of gender equality and women's rights. This can be achieved through targeted advocacy campaigns, community dialogues, and social mobilization initiatives. Civil society organizations such as the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) in Nigeria are at the forefront of advancing women's rights through rigorous research, impactful advocacy, and active community engagement.
Benefits of women empowerment in Africa and in Nigeria
Investing in women in Nigeria and across Africa brings about numerous social, economic, and developmental advantages. From an economic standpoint, empowering women within a society significantly contributes to its overall economic growth. Research indicates that enhancing women's participation in the labor force and narrowing gender disparities in employment could potentially add trillions of dollars to the global GDP by the year 2025 (McKinsey Global Institute, 2015). In the realm of entrepreneurship, supporting women entrepreneurs not only fosters innovation but also drives economic diversification. Consider, for instance, women engaged in industries such as wig making, braid wigs, and cloth making, which could be branded and exported. Nigeria could establish fashion shows in cities like Abuja or Lagos, akin to those held in Paris, London, or New York. By strategically investing in dressmaking and related industries, Africa's GDP could experience substantial growth. Organizations like the African Women Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP) in Nigeria offer training, mentorship, and financial access to women entrepreneurs, thus stimulating business expansion and innovation (AWEP Nigeria).
Educating girls and women should no longer be perceived as a waste of time and resources. It serves to enhance workforce productivity and facilitate human capital development. According to UNICEF, educating girls in Nigeria contributes significantly to poverty reduction, improved health outcomes, and enhanced economic prospects for families and communities (UNICEF Nigeria). Furthermore, women's inclusion in political processes is pivotal for promoting good governance, social cohesion, and political stability. Nations with higher levels of women's political participation typically exhibit lower levels of corruption and demonstrate greater responsiveness to citizens' needs (UN Women, 2021). Advancing gender equality in politics not only fosters social justice and equity but also instills a renewed determination among women in households and society to contribute their best towards societal advancement.
Conclusion
Investing in women is paramount for the advancement and prosperity of societies across Africa, including Nigeria. By prioritizing gender equality, promoting women's empowerment, and dismantling patriarchal barriers, societies can unlock the full potential of women and foster inclusive development. Through concerted efforts to challenge patriarchal norms, address gender disparities in education, economics, and politics, and combat gender-based violence, African nations can create environments where women thrive and contribute meaningfully to societal progress. On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the resilience, strength, and achievements of women worldwide, especially Nigerian women, who continue to defy obstacles and shape a brighter future for generations to come. Wishing all women a happy International Women's Day filled with recognition, appreciation, and empowerment.
Prof. Stella Omonigho is of Dept. of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Arts, University of Benin, Nigeria
References
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Jewkes, Rachel, et al. "Understanding Men’s Health and Use of Violence: Interface of Rape and HIV in South Africa." South African Medical Research Council, 2002.
Kabeer, Naila. "Resources, Agency, Achievements: Reflections on the Measurement of Women's Empowerment." Development and Change, vol. 30, no. 3, 1999, pp. 435-464.
Malhotra, Anju, et al. "Women’s Empowerment in Rural India: Dimensions, Determinants, and Dilemmas." International Food Policy Research Institute, 2002.
Oyewumi, Oyeronke. "The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses." University of Minnesota Press, 1997.
Tripp, Aili Mari. "Women and Power in Postconflict Africa." Cambridge University Press, 2015.