Mtandao creates, aggregates and disseminates information and resources to facilitate Social Work and Development Work in Africa.
Introduction: Lutsango as the nation’s shield In Eswatini, lutsango, meaning “the fence that safeguards the entire yard,” reflects the role of women as protectors, nurturers, and stabilisers of family, community, and nation. Like a traditional homestead fence that protects against harm, lutsango regiments made up of married and older women organised by region, employer, or…
When many people think of feminism, they picture protest signs, policy battles, and a direct challenge to the status quo. While that activist model has its place, it doesn’t always translate across all cultures or social landscapes. Nego-feminism, a concept pioneered by Nigerian scholar Obioma Nnaemeka, offers a refreshing, pragmatic, and deeply communal alternative that…
Read More “Understanding Nego-feminism and its implications for social work and development” »
Feminism in Africa has often been framed through a Western lens, ignoring the continent’s unique cultural, social, and historical realities. While Western feminism emphasizes individualism and gender antagonism, African societies have long thrived on complementary gender roles rooted in Ubuntu, the philosophy of interconnectedness. Western Feminism and its Limitations in the African Context Western feminism…
Africa’s Women’s Day is observed annually across the continent on 31 July and is a day earmarked to recognise and affirm the role of women’s organising in achieving the political freedom of Africa and advancing the social and economic status of women on the continent. Africa’s Women’s Day was proclaimed as a day to be…
Read More “Remember Pan African Women’s Day (31 July each year)” »
There are many women who contributed significantly to social development and social work in Africa. Some of these women are covered below. If you have information about a woman to add on the list, please do so. Charlotte Makgomo-Mannya Maxeke (1871-1939) Mama Maxeke was born in 1871 (other sources say 1874) in Ramokgopa, Polokwane District…
Read More “Africa’s 10 Great Women Social Workers Born Between 1871 and 1947” »
Developed by Sara Hlupekile Longwe of Zambia in 1995, this is one of the world’s most persuasive gender theories. The framework is used to teach, plan, evaluate, learn and research gender issues. Longwe was awarded the 2003 Africa Prize for Leadership for her work in gender empowerment. Sara Hlupekile Longwe , a feminist who developed the Women…
Read More “Women Empowerment Framework or Longwe Framework for Gender Analysis” »
