Women in Politics: Sub-Saharan Africa & Kenya
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Women in Politics: Sub-Saharan Africa & Kenya

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What is a key focus of the article regarding women in politics in Kenya?

  • The comparison of Kenyan women to women in Western countries.
  • The historical context of women’s rights in Kenya.
  • The intersection of multiple identities affecting political experiences. (correct)
  • The economic impacts of women entering politics.

    • Which of the following does the article identify as a barrier to women's political inclusion?

  • Political campaigning and electoral violence. (correct)
  • Economic disparities between men and women.
  • Education levels of women in politics.
  • Cultural expectations surrounding women's roles.

    • How do politically active women in Kenya envision their political future?

  • By aligning closely with international feminist movements.
  • Through imagining and outlining new ways of conducting politics. (correct)
  • Through promoting a single identity for political representation.
  • By advocating for stricter laws against male politicians.

    • What aspect of women in politics is emphasized by progressive policies in Sub-Saharan Africa?

    <p>Implementation of gender quotas for political positions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What unique perspective does the intersectional approach offer in the study of women in politics?

    <p>It considers how multiple identities impact political experiences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following countries has the highest proportion of women in the national parliament?

    <p>Rwanda</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of activism is discussed in relation to women and politics in Africa?

    <p>Collective feminist organizing and mobilizations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the article suggest about women's political experiences in Kenya?

    <p>They vary based on intersecting identities like ethnicity and class.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant issue that women from diverse backgrounds face in political participation?

    <p>Barriers related to socio-economic conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are women considered the best experts at identifying barriers to their political inclusion?

    <p>They experience the barriers firsthand</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do women imply about their expectations for the political system?

    <p>It could benefit from the elimination of misogyny</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one approach women use to envision alternatives to current political issues?

    <p>Thinking and acting differently about their challenges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does collective political agency play in women's political participation?

    <p>It promotes intersectional inclusion and equality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary method used in the research conducted in Nairobi?

    <p>Semi-structured qualitative interviews</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following issues do women politicians primarily push for when in elected positions?

    <p>Public spending and social policies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What criticism is mentioned regarding the representation of women in politics?

    <p>A large proportion does not guarantee redistributive politics for poor women.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did conflicts and violence play in women's political mobilization in Africa?

    <p>They created forums for new political thinking and reforms for women's rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant factor affecting women's access to political representation, according to Manon Tremblay?

    <p>Recent democratization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which electoral system is used in Kenya?

    <p>First-past-the-post</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which region has become a leading area for affirmative action and gender quota adoption?

    <p>Sub-Saharan Africa</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these countries is mentioned as an example of women parliamentarians changing laws related to women's issues?

    <p>Rwanda</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does descriptive representation refer to?

    <p>The demographic characteristics of elected officials</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does intersectionality in political representation highlight?

    <p>The unique experiences of individuals based on overlapping social identities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a proposed benefit of increasing women's representation in politics?

    <p>Stronger legislative push for gender equality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one outcome of the feminist mobilization observed during the 1990s and early 2000s in Africa?

    <p>More constitutional reforms for women's rights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding women's political aspirations in Africa?

    <p>Young women are increasingly aspiring to become politicians.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of policy is often linked to women's representation in governance?

    <p>Stronger focus on gender issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major reason fewer women are elected to office in countries using single-member districts?

    <p>Parties are less likely to nominate women.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does corruption impact women's political inclusion in Africa?

    <p>It negatively affects women's political inclusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach examines women's diverse experiences in electoral politics?

    <p>Intersectional approach</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does political patronage play in women's political inclusion?

    <p>It creates barriers to women's access to resources.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which ethnic group has historically dominated Kenyan politics?

    <p>Kikuyu</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During Daniel arap Moi’s presidency, which ethnic group had better access to resources?

    <p>Kalenjin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What dynamic factor influences women's political careers in Kenya?

    <p>Endorsements by powerful community members</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do ethnic affiliations affect women's participation in political parties?

    <p>Women often join parties aligned with their ethnic group.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tends to influence Kenyan voters' choices in elections?

    <p>Perceived ethnic bias of others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group of women has often faced exclusion from Kenyan politics?

    <p>Indigenous groups like the Ogiek and Maasai</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was established in Kenya for economic empowerment in 1952?

    <p>Maendeleo ya Wanawake (MYWO)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has been a traditional impact of colonial and postcolonial leaders on women's movements in Kenya?

    <p>Mobilization of women's groups for their agendas</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of political patronage, what influences the distribution of resources?

    <p>Ethnic and personal networks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The emphasis on numbers of women parliamentarians is often viewed as ineffective in what realm?

    <p>Improving legislative representation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does marital status affect women's political participation in Kenya?

    <p>Unmarried women leverage their education for political gain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which ethnic group has the highest percentage of girls married by age 18?

    <p>Pokot</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of violence do women face more during electoral politics in Kenya?

    <p>Sexual violence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common misconception about women in politics is highlighted in the narrative?

    <p>Women must conform to traditional expectations to succeed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What form of harassment did Alicia face from male politicians?

    <p>Silencing through public humiliation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between early marriage and girls' education in Kenya?

    <p>Early marriage often leads to school dropout.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do community expectations impact women's political aspirations?

    <p>Women must demonstrate compliance with gender norms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of electoral violence in Kenya, which group is more likely to experience sexual violence?

    <p>Women</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant issue faced by women politicians during the 2007-2008 conflicts?

    <p>Widespread sexual violence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best reflects the intersection of gender and ethnicity in women's political opportunities?

    <p>Women face specific challenges based on their ethnicity and gender.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary consequence of female genital cutting (FGC) in relation to political leadership in certain cultures?

    <p>Non-cut women are often excluded from leadership.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What perception do people have of women who enter politics in Kenya?

    <p>They are perceived as engaging in moral compromise.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of women's socio-political experiences is significantly detailed in the context?

    <p>Gendered and ethnic violence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of Somali girls are married by the age of 18?

    <p>38%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What two main ideologies influence political parties in Kenya according to a youth activist?

    <p>Money and tribe/ethnicity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do the councils of elders play in the endorsement of political candidates?

    <p>Their endorsement is essential for gaining support from ethnic communities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do older politicians generally hold an advantage over younger candidates in Kenya?

    <p>They have stronger ethnic networks and financial backing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was identified as a significant financial barrier for women aspiring to run political campaigns?

    <p>Inability to afford campaign necessities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What misconception do young women often face when they are nominated for political positions?

    <p>They are accused of personal relationships with party leaders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do established politicians typically provide to potential voters during campaigns?

    <p>Community development projects and basic needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes the nomination criteria for women in places like Garissa?

    <p>A minimum education level requirement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Alicia express concerning the campaign strategies of older men?

    <p>They often resorted to vote buying.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What economic concept intersects with gender and age in Kenyan electoral politics?

    <p>Unequal class relations and gender relations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was noted as a financial necessity for running a political campaign?

    <p>Campaign materials and transport costs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What barrier affects young women uniquely compared to their male counterparts in Kenyan politics?

    <p>Limited access to funding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage do older men often have over younger candidates during elections?

    <p>Resource availability through ethnic networks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the expectation for candidates to provide for voters influence elections in Kenya?

    <p>It fosters a sense of community reliance on individual wealth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what aspect do the competitive nature of recent elections in Kenya impact young politicians?

    <p>It increases the overall financial demand for campaigns.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary focus of the article regarding politically active women in Kenya?

    <p>The intersection of gender, ethnicity, and class in electoral politics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How has the number of women members of parliament in Kenya changed from the 2017 to the 2022 elections?

    <p>It increased from 23 to 29</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is Kenya considered a relevant case study for women's political inclusion?

    <p>It has a progressive rights-based constitution and active feminist movements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of women's experiences in politics is emphasized as important in the article?

    <p>The importance of understanding intersectionality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the electoral processes in Kenya, according to the article?

    <p>Political parties organizing largely on ethnic affiliation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is identified as contributing to the complexity of women's political experiences in Kenya?

    <p>Ethnic nationalism and its accompanying racism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant issue faced by women in party nominations?

    <p>Inadequate economic resources compared to male candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many women were elected as MPs from constituencies in the 2022 elections?

    <p>29</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of parliamentarians in Kenya are currently women?

    <p>23%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutes the two-thirds gender rule in the context of political party nominations?

    <p>A policy mandating that parties nominate at least two-thirds women</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the article suggest about the intersection of class with other identity markers in Kenya?

    <p>Class relations are crucial for understanding intersectionality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do intersectional inequalities encompass according to the article?

    <p>Cultural and institutional power asymmetries and barriers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which problem related to party nominations did a woman parliamentarian highlight from her experience?

    <p>Fraudulent theft of nomination certificates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the 2010 constitution of Kenya play in women's political representation?

    <p>It facilitates the implementation of two-thirds gender quotas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a described tactic used by men to undermine women's candidatures during party nominations?

    <p>Mobilizing militias to intimidate candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which category of women were most likely to be nominated in the elections?

    <p>Women in special interest groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinct experiences are politically active women in Kenya shaped by?

    <p>A convergence of multiple intersecting identities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do politically active women contribute to the discussion around political systems in Kenya?

    <p>By identifying barriers and outlining new political possibilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What financial barrier do women face in political party nominations?

    <p>Expensive nomination fees set by political parties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group has historically dominated party nomination organs?

    <p>Male candidates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the article identify as underexamined in the context of women in politics?

    <p>Women's own experiences and perceptions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do the authors argue is critical for understanding political experiences?

    <p>An intersectional analysis of multiple identities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge complicates political careers for women and youth in Kenya?

    <p>Political party funding disparities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some of the structures that intersect to shape women's political experiences in Kenya?

    <p>A blend of gender, ethnicity, and class structures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What change did interviewees suggest would foster intersectional inclusion in political parties?

    <p>Ensuring a minimum percentage of women in nominations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of Kenyan politics, how do ethnic loyalties impact party nominations?

    <p>They often lead to prioritization of certain ethnic groups in nominations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does electoral violence play in women's political participation?

    <p>It largely intimidates women and reduces their participation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge do women face even when property rights are constitutionally protected?

    <p>Social attitudes that favor male inheritance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which percentage of candidates in the 2022 elections were women?

    <p>11%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the woman senator from ODM suggest as a necessary starting point for political parties?

    <p>Adopt a gender principle in party mandates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the role of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) in women's political inclusion after independence?

    <p>KANU used MYWO to attract women's votes but was hesitant to enhance their political inclusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the late 1960s to the 1990s, how was Kenya's political state characterized?

    <p>Executive and legislative powers were concentrated in KANU, resembling a one-party state.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant global trend during the 1990s impacted women's political inclusion?

    <p>The democratization process emphasized the need for women's representation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect did the 2002 general election have on women's representation in the Kenyan parliament?

    <p>Women's representation experienced a modest rise to 8%.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which major event occurred during the 2007 elections in Kenya?

    <p>Ethnic violence led to significant casualties and displacement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the result of the 2010 constitutional process in Kenya regarding women's rights?

    <p>It significantly expanded women’s rights and introduced a quota system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After the 2013 elections, what percentage of the National Assembly was made up of women?

    <p>21%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge regarding representation remains despite progress made in women's political participation in Kenya?

    <p>Most women still occupy non-competitive seats rather than elected positions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the quota system affect the dynamics between elected and nominated women MPs in Kenya?

    <p>It created new forms of inequality and hampered solidarity among women.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a notable outcome from the 2017 elections in Kenya concerning women's political representation?

    <p>For the first time, three women were elected as governors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which issue continues to pervade the political system in Kenya, affecting electoral processes?

    <p>Frequent occurrences of political violence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Fourth United Nations World Conference on Women in Beijing signify in the context of women's rights?

    <p>It played a vital role in integrating rights discourses into development agendas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to previous trends, how did women’s participation in civil society impact their political presence?

    <p>It contributed to women's visibility and activism but did not significantly raise their numbers in parliament.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about the percentage of women in ministerial positions in Kenya is accurate?

    <p>Kenya has one of the highest percentages of women in ministerial positions in Africa.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenges do women face during electoral campaigns due to cultural beliefs?

    <p>Women are often viewed as unqualified due to traditional gender roles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do some women politicians utilize traditional roles to their advantage in campaigns?

    <p>By using their status as mothers to appeal to voters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the impact of community beliefs regarding marriage on women politicians?

    <p>Unmarried women politicians are often disregarded as candidates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What dilemma do women leaders face regarding gender norms and political behavior?

    <p>They must choose between adhering to and deviating from gender norms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy did one woman MP use to convince voters of her leadership capability?

    <p>Highlighting her educational background and professional experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cultural perception did Camille face during her campaign for office?

    <p>Women were valued primarily as mothers and wives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of political parties did the woman MP highlight as crucial to her campaign?

    <p>Her personal qualifications and character.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant consequence for women politicians marrying into different ethnic groups?

    <p>They were often viewed as outsiders in both their new and original communities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did women politicians adapt to the cultural expectations surrounding motherhood?

    <p>By emphasizing their family lives as a qualification for leadership.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the experiences of young women in politics differ from those of older women?

    <p>Young women experienced greater intersectional barriers to political office.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the gender double bind imply for women in politics?

    <p>Women are judged whether they conform to or reject traditional gender roles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tactic did some women politicians use to counteract negative perceptions?

    <p>Utilizing personal narratives to connect with their communities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What pressure did unmarried women politicians face from their communities?

    <p>They were often viewed with suspicion regarding their leadership capabilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the woman MP respond to community expectations regarding party affiliation?

    <p>She focused on convincing voters to see beyond party lines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What example reflects ethnic pressures on voters witnessed during elections?

    <p>Non-native residents faced threats for not voting for native candidates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Sub-Saharan Africa's Women in Politics

    • Sub-Saharan Africa has a growing number of women in political decision-making roles, alongside progressive policies like gender quotas.
    • Rwanda has the highest proportion of women in national parliaments globally.
    • Despite progress, research on politically active women's perceptions of political challenges and intersecting inequalities remains limited.

    Intersectionality in Kenyan Electoral Politics

    • This study examines Kenyan women's experiences with electoral politics, focusing on intersecting identities like ethnicity and class.
    • Kenya serves as a relevant case study due to its feminist movements, progressive constitution (with gender quotas), and vibrant political landscape.
    • The study uses an intersectional approach, acknowledging factors like gender, ethnicity, class, age, and marital status.
    • Kenya has more than 40 ethnic groups; political parties often organize along ethnic lines.
    • Intersecting inequalities involve cultural, institutional, and material barriers that affect women's political inclusion differently based on intersectional identities.

    Challenges to Women's Political Inclusion in Kenya

    • Party Nominations: Women face significant challenges securing nominations due to:
      • Limited opportunities for women, particularly in lower-income groups and youth spheres.
      • High costs associated with nominations that often disadvantage women.
      • Male dominance in party nomination organs.
      • Potential manipulation and abuse of women's nominations.
      • Strong ethnic loyalties hindering equitable nomination processes.
      • Gender stereotypes surrounding women's roles and leadership.
    • Campaigning:
      • High cost of campaigns, making it difficult for lower-income women.
      • Voters often expect political candidates to provide material benefits, further disadvantaging women who typically have fewer resources.
      • Gender stereotypes and societal expectations regarding women's roles sometimes create challenges in their political careers and campaigns.
    • Electoral Violence:
      • Women face unique forms of violence, including verbal harassment, threats, and sexual violence.
      • Gendered and sexual violence often targets women in politics, who are sometimes seen as having a compromised status or morality.
      • Marital status, ethnicity, and class combine to complicate women's involvement and safety during elections. Accusations aimed at tarnishing their reputation and threatening their political careers are common.
    • Overall Barriers:
      • Political patronage systems, often based on ethnic ties, present barriers to women's political inclusion.
      • Intersectionality highlights the complexity of inequalities and how several factors cross-cut and influence electoral outcomes.

    Women's Experiences (Examples)

    • Women facing nominations challenges frequently highlight difficulties related to party processes, economic resources, and male dominance.
    • Women campaigners often encounter significant financial hurdles and face gender stereotypes in electoral contexts.
    • Women politicians in rural settings face additional societal expectations of conforming to traditional gender roles.
    • Experiences of electoral violence vary, demonstrating intersecting issues affecting women from different backgrounds.

    Strategies and Solutions

    • Women's experiences highlight barriers to their inclusion and suggest potential solutions.
    • Addressing issues like poverty, violence, and gender stereotypes are crucial to fostering greater political inclusion, enabling women to achieve intersectional equality.
    • Active individual and collective political agency is seen as essential for achieving intersectional inclusion and equality.

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    Description

    Explore the dynamic roles of women in politics across Sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on Rwanda's leading representation. This quiz delves into the intersectionality of identity in Kenyan electoral politics, examining how ethnicity and class shape women's experiences and challenges. Review key concepts, policies, and the impact of feminist movements in the region.

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