…African Women’s Participation in Political
Activities Have Been Insignificant
Whereas traditionally she had certain role to play on the political level, the exercise of her political rights was based on elements different from those in European society such as family status, maturity and coming of her husband and could influence his decision.
After African countries gained independence some efforts were made to involve women in certain political and administrative responsibility shing the declaration of the international women’s year in 1975, establishing the U.N. decade for women which in 1985, these efforts were strengthened by the sitting up of political and administrative structure to foster the development of women’s political consciousness and by women’s determination to work alongside with men in a framework of their respective roles for harmonious, selfreliant development.
The lack of women’s participation in political life is an integral part of the more general problem of the advancement of women as those who participate in the process of decision-making are the first to benefit from the decisions adopted. The role of the African woman who occupies high political office and participates in decision making would involve her being conscious of the real needs of all women in order to indirect policies in their favor. She should serve as the link between these political powers and the mass of women.
In a number of countries women do participate in political life. But their participation cannot simply be evaluated on the basis of the numb of women represented in a particular political structure, or the representing their governments in international forum while woment are represented at high levels, their powers are so restricted that the value of their contribution is not recognized.
The important role of women is often rendered invisible by pshycho-logical obstacles, ,as well as those of technical nature. Attitudes and biological prejudices are essentially transmitted though education and culture the reproduction of a system of values based on custmoded socio logical an historical date that justifies the sexual division of role at every level of life.
Rose Francine ROGOMBE
QUESTIONS
1°) which role did African traditional women play on the political plan? Which role do women play now? (4 pts)
2°) According to the writer the women’s participation in political activities has been insignificant? (4pts) Do you agree with it? Why?
3°) what is the role-played by women on the political level in your country. Is it important? Why? (8-10 lines) . (6pts)
Do you think it is necessary for a woman to involve in the politic?
4°) Give a title to the text. (2 pts)
5°) translate from: After African countries gained independence… to self-reliant development. (4pts)