Political Emancipation of Agikuyu Women in Central Kenya and their Shift from Tribal to National Politics

Abstract

The study sought to examine the political emancipation of Agikuyu women and their shift from tribal to National politics, and to determine the role of Agikuyu women in Kenya’s Politics. The scope of is confined within the boundaries of the three Agikuyu sub-tribes; Metumi (Muranga), Karura (Kiambu) and Gaki (Nyeri) also referred to as the Northern Kikuyu. The study is anchored on Interpretivism and narratology philosophy and underpinned on womanism and descriptive representation theory. A qualitative descriptive and exploratory research design is adopted while using a Purposive sampling approach.  Data sources include Primary, Secondary, Material culture and Participant observation sources. The findings were as follows:

The political emancipation of Agikuyu women and the shift from tribal politics to national elections are intertwined with historical events of pre-independence and the socio-political changes shaping the landscape. Women advancement in education, women's movements, and the adoption of multiparty systems have played vital roles in challenging gender norms and expanding opportunities for Agikuyu and other women's political engagement and emancipation. The urban and rural divide among Agikuyu women also contributes to variations in their journey towards political emancipation. However, challenges persist, including violence, cultural barriers, and institutional constraints

The involvement of Agikuyu women in politics has brought new perspectives, priorities, and policy agendas to the forefront. Through their political engagement, they have been able to advocate for issues that are important to them and their communities, such as women's rights, gender equality, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.   Their active participation has contributed to a more inclusive and gender-responsive political landscape in Kenya.  Moreover, the Agikuyu women's involvement in politics is not limited to electoral processes but also extends to their active engagement in community organizations. They hold leadership positions in grassroots initiatives, women's groups, and civil society organizations, working towards community development, social justice, and empowerment.

The findings show that as Agikuyu women gain greater agency and empowerment, they challenge the traditional tribal voting patterns that have long characterized Kenyan politics. Instead, they align themselves with national political ideologies, demonstrating a desire for inclusive and representative governance. Recommendations drawn from the findings are: Strengthening of women's networks and support systems, Addressing of non-cultural barriers to women's political participation, Implementation of gender-responsive policies, Transformation of inhibitive cultural barriers, and Adequate democratic choice of women political representatives.

Keywords: Agikuyu, Kikuyu, Women Emancipation, political shift, women in politics, Tribal politics, National Politics, Ontology

DOI: 10.7176/JCSD/73-09

Publication date: September 30^th 2024