Libro

Descripción

Nnang Basadi (Women Sit Down) or Emang Basadi (Women Stand Up)? is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of one of Botswana's most cherished indigenous institutions—the Kgotla—through the lens of gender, religion, customary justice, constitutional democracy, and sustainable development. For generations, the Kgotla has symbolised dialogue, consensus-building, community participation, and restorative justice. Yet beneath its celebrated democratic traditions lies an important question: Can indigenous governance evolve to fully embrace gender equality while preserving its cultural legitimacy?  Kelebogile Matolela examines how religion, patriarchy, and customary practices continue to shape women's participation, leadership, and representation within Botswana's customary governance system. Rather than portraying culture and women's rights as opposing forces, the book demonstrates that indigenous institutions are dynamic and capable of meaningful transformation. Grounded in African Feminist Theory, Intersectionality, and Legal Pluralism, this book challenges simplistic narratives that depict customary institutions as either inherently oppressive or inherently democratic. Instead, it presents the Kgotla as a living institution where constitutional values, religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and contemporary aspirations are continuously negotiated. The book offers an original conceptual framework linking religion, patriarchy, women's agency, constitutional democracy, and sustainable development, while providing practical policy recommendations for traditional leaders, government, religious institutions, civil society, universities, and development partners. It further demonstrates how strengthening women's participation within customary governance contributes directly to achieving SDGs, as well as Botswana's Vision 2036 and the African Union's Agenda 2063. More than a study of Botswana's Kgotla, Nnang Basadi or Emang Basadi? is an invitation to reimagine how tradition and transformation can coexist-ensuring that indigenous institutions remain inclusive, relevant, and responsive to the aspirations of present and future generations.