Reclaiming the African Woman's Individuality: The Struggle Between Women's Reproductive Autonomy and African Society and Culture

The author notes that the African woman's exercise of her right to reproductive autonomy and reproductive health are closely linked to the customary laws and traditional practices applied in her community. This paper looks at several traditional practices which impede African women's rights in this area and at the evolution of customary law as it relates to the position of women in African society. Finally, it addresses how international human rights norms can be used to address the reproductive health needs of African women. The author concludes that changing custom and practice must occur through massive action on legal, educational and other fronts, and that international human rights norms must be linked to local and regional laws and human rights instruments to be effective. [Descriptors: Reproductive Rights - Reproductive Freedom, International - Africa]