Our Journey: Advocating for the Rights of African Women Our Journey: Advocating for the Rights of African Women Compiled by: Njoki Wainaina, Founding Member and Chairperson of FEMNET Executive Board (1992-1996) Concept and Interviews by: Fatma Alloo, Secretary and Member of the FEMNET Executive Board representing Eastern Africa (2003-2010) Edited by: Rachel Kagoiya, Information Manager, FEMNET Design & Production: Centrepress Media Limited, Tel: +254 20 21 00 705, +254 772 72 66 96 •
[email protected] Table of Contents Acknowledgement 4 Acronyms 6 Foreword 8 Introduction 10 Chapter 1 - The Genesis: How it all began 11 Chapter 2 - The Birth of FEMNET: a Network of Women, by Women and for Women 19 Chapter 3 - FEMNET’s Defining Moments 27 Chapter 4 - Experiences of African Women’s Rights Pioneers 45 Chapter 5 - New Era: A Feminist Approach 73 Chapter 6 - Leveraging on Strategic Moments and Forging Ahead 97 ‘. diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal Acknowledgement in value no matter what their color.’ enowned African-American poet, author, actress, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou once said, diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no Rmatter what their color.’ The journey of weaving FEMNET’s story began as a dream that culminated into this rich and diverse recollection of experiences and memories by the founders, members, staff of FEMNET and friends of FEMNET. FEMNET wishes to acknowledge with much appreciation the efforts and commitment of several people that worked tirelessly to the success of documenting Herstory.