Feminist Perspectives on Languages, Status, and Role of Women in Africa

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to explore feminist perspectives on languages, status, and role of women. The chapter explores the following main research question: What is the status of African women during the pre-colonial and post-colonial eras? To explore this question, the authors used a qualitative research approach, with desk review as their data collection method for secondary data. Furthermore, the authors utilised insights from folklores as well as their experiences as Zimbabwean feminists. The crux of their argument is that women's existence and power in pre-colonial African societies were based on the principle of care that was rooted in their peaceful and helpful nature. The authors further argue that African women are still beacons of wisdom, hope, justice, and morality. Due to the current waning respect for women, the authors recommend that women ought to be celebrated and promoted through positive language use in both the private and public spheres. Furthermore, the authors recommend the correct use of language since it is a powerful way of ensuring gender equality and empowerment of women in any given society.