Women's and Gender Studies in English-Speaking Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review of Research in the Social Sciences

• Published in: Gender & society 2004-12, Vol.18 (6), p.685-714
• Main Authors: Ampofo, Akosua Adomako, Beoku-Betts, Josephine, Wairimu Ngaruiya Njambi, Mary Osirim
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Education; English language; Feminism; Gays & lesbians; Gender equality; Gender Studies; Health; Homosexuality; Imams; International Perspective; Men; Methodology; NGOs; Non-governmental organizations; Nongovernmental organizations; Personal relationships; Politics; Sexual violence; Sexuality; Social Science Research; Social sciences; Sub Saharan Africa; Violence; Violence against women; Women; Women's studies; Womens health; Womens rights; Womens Studies
• ISSN: 0891-2432; 1552-3977
• DOI: 10.1177/0891243204269188

This article seeks to broaden understanding of issues and controversies addressed in social science research on women's and gender studies by researchers and activists based in English-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. The topics covered were selected from those ratified by African women in the Africa Platform for Action in 1995 as well as from current debates on the politics of identity. The common feminist issues the authors identified were health; gender-based violence; sexuality, education, globalization and work; and politics, the state, and nongovernmental organizations. In addition, the authors address theoretical and methodological trends. All four coauthors are feminist sociologists: One scholar is based in an African academic institution, two are Africans based in U.S. academic institutions, and one is an African American based in a U.S. academic institution.