NJIKO: A Multi-Disciplinary Journal of Humanities, Law, Education and Social Sciences

This article explores the pursuit of gender justice in Africa through the critical reinterpretation of traditional norms, navigating the longstanding tension between cultural relativism and universal human rights standards. Drawing on historical analyses of pre-colonial gender systems, colonial disruptions, and postcolonial legacies, content analysis, including persistent patriarchal hierarchies and gender-based violence, it argues that outright rejection of cultural practices is neither feasible nor desirable. Instead, a culturally grounded yet transformative approach offers a sustainable pathway to equality, one that honours indigenous knowledge while challenging harmful norms such as child marriage and female genital mutilation. The discussion examines key conceptual frameworks, including gendered transitional justice mechanisms, grassroots movements, women-led advocacy, and landmark legal instruments like the Maputo Protocol and CEDAW. It highlights successful community-driven models that foster dialogue, engage traditional leaders, and promote inclusive reinterpretations of masculinity, leadership, and communal roles. By balancing cultural heritage with contemporary rights imperatives, these efforts demonstrate how African societies can advance gender equity without erasing identity. The article advocates for ongoing, localised engagement through education, policy enforcement, and collective action to dismantle systemic inequalities. This decolonial, relational strategy not only strengthens social cohesion but also contributes to broader discourses on human rights, feminism, and sustainable development in Africa.

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