The Stagnation of Women’s Liberation in Society: Examples from the Plays Nguzo Mama and Machozi ya Mwanamke

This desk-based study sought to examine the stagnation of women’s liberation in society by drawing on selected plays, Nguzo Mama and Machozi ya Mwanamke. Primary data were obtained through the reading of the selected texts and text analysis. A purposive sampling approach was used to select the plays because of their direct relevance to the study topic. Feminist theory was employed as the guiding framework for analyzing the data and identifying how social, cultural and economic systems continue to oppress women. The findings show that women face obstacles rooted in oppressive customs and traditions, economic dependence, and inferior gender perceptions that place women below men. It was also established that social institutions such as the family and other societal structures contribute to the gender gap that undermines women’s efforts to liberate themselves. This article recommends strengthening gender education in schools and in society in order to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote gender equality in all areas of life. In response, government and development stakeholders should reinforce policies that protect women’s rights and ensure equal opportunities for leadership and economic participation. Literary writers are also encouraged to continue using art to educate society about gender equality.

Stagnation, Liberation, Woman, Plays, Feminist theory.

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