Indigenous Rights in the Commonwealth

Indigenous Women's Rights in Africa

This report focuses on the capacity of Indigenous women in Africa to actively access their rights. It begins by noting that in many African countries women continue to face discrimination from customary norms and laws. Poverty is identified as an additional cause of the denial of rights to Indigenous women. Key rights which continue to be violated include property rights and the rights of political participation. Specific examples of progress in accessing rights are reviewed and the author concludes by emphasizing the importance of training women in their individual human rights.