Women in Togo
Women in Togo
- Adovi Michel Goeh-AkueAdovi Michel Goeh-AkueIndependent Scholar
- , and Soalinane TchintchanSoalinane TchintchanHistory and Archaeology, University of Lomé (Togo)
Summary
Throughout Togo, male hegemony was and remains the norm. Colonization did not produce any palpable change in favor of women. Rather, colonial authorities confined women to their roles of wife and housekeeper by excluding them from European economic and political activities. And yet, the reality is that women played a crucial role in the country’s social, economic, and political transformations. They stood alongside nationalists during the struggle for independence (1946–1960) and as members of the National Women’s League of Togo (l’Union nationale des femmes du Togo, or UNFT). They provided significant support for the national party (1969–1991) and had an equally strong presence in the opposition movement as the country began democratizing in 1990. Above all, they are known for their dynamism in business. As store owners and stall keepers, they run wholesale and retail operations alike. Meanwhile, efforts are being made to improve their status and condition. Family and individual law gives them certain rights, and positive steps have been taken regarding women’s education. Political authorities also increasingly promote women. Since 2010, the massive market fires in Lomé and Kara in January 2013 have proven to be the biggest blow to both the image of Togolese women and their economic ascension.
Subjects
- Women’s History