Reclaiming Feminism in Africa: Confronting the Misconceptions and Misandry Narrative in Ghanaian Society

Author : Rita Ama Nupe Demuyakor

Abstract :—In contemporary Ghana, as in many parts of Africa, feminism is increasingly viewed through a lens of suspicion, wrongly equated with misandry, rebellion against tradition, or hostility toward marriage and motherhood. This presentation interrogates the roots of this perception and the social backlash that has made many African women reluctant to identify as feminists. Drawing from media discourse, public debates, and personal narratives, the paper examines how colonial legacies, religious fundamentalism, and patriarchal resistance have distorted the core ideals of feminism: equality, justice, and dignity for all. It also critiques how some strands of feminist expression, particularly on social media have inadvertently sparked a narrative of male hatred, overshadowing the movement’s broader vision. The presentation calls for a reclamation of African feminism rooted in communal values, solidarity, and balanced gender dialogue that promotes economic, political and social empowerment. It advocates for a movement that empowers without alienating, and that upholds women’s rights, men’s rights and societal harmony. By clarifying misconceptions, this paper aims to decolonize feminism and restore its relevance and integrity in the Ghanaian society and Africa as a whole

Keywords :African feminism, gender equality, colonial legacies, patriarchy, social media narratives Decolonizing feminism, communal values, empowerment, Ghana, societal harmony

Conference Name :International Conference on Feminism, Class and Work (ICFCW-25)

Conference Place City of London, UK

Conference Date 5th Aug 2025