Answer to Question #188798 in English for Koomson

Question

1. Using four factors, explain why achieving gender equality is important isimportant for contemporary African studies?

Answer 1

Gender inequality has been a very big issue in Africa since the pre-colonial period. Therefore, achieving gender equality is of greater significance in the contemporary African studies basing on the following key factors:

It saves lives. Because of lack of empowerment and resources in Africa, many women and girls face life-threatening risks. Many of the girls suffer from female genital mutilation(FGM) and early marriages thus a number of them loose lives. Studying gender equality saves the lives of many vulnerable women in Africa.

It leads to better legal protection. Many women in Africa are not well protected from domestic violence, sexual and economic violence. Increasing rights keeps them safe and able to build productive happy lives. In the recent past, a boy-child has also been neglected in Africa and many end up in criminal activities. Studying the legal rights will enable them to seek equality and right to protection.

Children are healthier. Studying gender equality helps women to make their own reproductive choices which in turn helps to provide a better care for children they have. In addition, women will be able to access better and quality maternal healthcare when they are expectant. It enables them to give birth to healthier children.

Reduces poverty. Most of the African countries are poor and the girls are the most affected. because of high poverty level, many girls are not given formal education. women in most countries do not own property. however, gender equality helps in realizing the importance of girl child education which enables them to be independent women in future. this will greatly reduce the level of poverty in Africa.