Women in political parties in Africa

Abstract

This chapter examines women in political parties in Africa. It provides a conceptual background to explore the historicity, constraints, and participation of women in politics in Africa and sketches the growing visibility of Africa as the beacon of women participation in politics in the world. The chapter argues that women are critical, invincible, and integral actors in the sustenance of democracy. It identifies the structure of the political system, the patriarchal nature of society, inadequate access to education and means of production, inadequate social capital, and the "Hobbesian" political environment (thuggery, gang wars, kidnappings, and political assassinations) as some of the factors militating against the full expression and visibility of women in partisan politics. The thesis proposed by this chapter is that although, women are weighed down by political, social, cultural, and religious factors; the gendered glass ceiling of male dominated political space can be smashed through relevant policy framework and commensurate political will to implement policies.