Women and socio-economic transformation in Kenya, 1850 - 1963:A case study of the Abagusii

Abstract

This M.A. Thesis is a study based on Gusii women and socio-economic transformation between 1850 and 1963. It analyses the integration of pre-colonial Gusii women's socioeconomic roles with the colonial socio-economy. The establishment of a colonial economy and political order generally had the effect of destabilizing the position of women both socially and economically. Major sources of change included the individualizationof land ownership in men's names, and the recruitment of male labour to the settler economy, cash crop production and formal education. While colonial land reforms denied women their traditional access to and control of land, institutionalization of wage migration for male adults had the general effect of considerably increasing women's workload. The imposition of the hut tax and abolition of cattle villages (ebisarate) by the colonial administration compelled Gusii men to seek wage labour outside their homes so as to raise money for tax payment. By 1940s a large number of Gusii men were out on migrant labour, leaving their wives with increased agricultural and household tasks. Inspite of their labour, colonial policies tended to marginalise women not only in cash crop production but also in formal education. Gusii women were, however, presented with new socio-economicopportunities and openings in terms of increased marketing and legal institutions for the advancement of their interests and sexuality rights. Marriage patterns were relatively loosened from the tight grip of traditions and elders. iv Though the colonial impact on gender relations, in many ways, tended to weaken the social and economic position of Gusii women, it nevertheless presented them with potential opportunitiesfor the enhancement of their roles, status and participation in societal progress