a Feminism Be African? by Minna Salami is a profound and thought-provoking exploration that invites readers to rethink the intersections of feminism, African identity, and selfhood. Salami’s inquiry delves deeply into the complex relationship between feminism and Africa, questioning and reimagining what it means to be both African and feminist, and whether these two concepts can coexist without compromise or distortion.

The book challenges dominant narratives by highlighting the distinctiveness of African feminism and offering a refreshing perspective that combines personal reflection with cultural criticism. Salami draws on a range of sources, including feminist thought, postcolonial theory, historical insights, and African knowledge systems, to create a rich, multidimensional discussion. She addresses issues of power, patriarchy, identity, and the human condition while exploring how African women have long fought for autonomy and agency despite the colonial and patriarchal structures that have sought to suppress them.

What makes Can Feminism Be African? Particularly compelling is Salami’s ability to weave together intellectual analysis with cultural insights and personal experiences, creating a narrative that is both deeply rooted in Africa's past and relevant to its present and future struggles. The book’s title itself encapsulates the paradox at the heart of the inquiry, setting the stage for a deep dive into how the terms 'African', 'feminism', and even 'be' need to be unpacked and understood within an African context.

Salami does not shy away from the complexities and challenges of reconciling the often Western-centric view of feminism with the diverse and rich traditions of African cultures. Instead, she argues for a rethinking of narratives that shape both feminist thought and African identities, offering new ways to understand and embrace feminist politics that are both empowering and true to African values.

Can Feminism Be African? is a timely and necessary contribution to contemporary feminist and postcolonial discourse. It challenges us to reconsider how we define feminism, how we engage with African identities, and how we reimagine the future of gender equality in Africa and beyond. It is a powerful call to action for anyone interested in feminism, African studies, or the ongoing struggle for autonomy and agency in a rapidly changing world.

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I have read a number of books on racism and feminism over the years, but not very many dealing with the experience of women in Africa - they usually focused on racism in Western countries. This book was really good, but really challenging. I am used to reading essays and memoirs that are accessible, easy to comprehend, divided into neat chapters with examples I can easily grasp - this was not it. It was interesting, well-written, Minna Salami clearly has a brilliant mind, but accessible it was not.
The chapters are very systematic in their approach - what is Africa, what is feminism, what does it mean to be - and cover various angles - the Superiorism of Europe, essential to Europe's identity, the Educator of Africa; the Gender abd Development approaches so popular nowadays; Covid; African myths and legends; a history of African feminist thinkers.
I am not sure I understood all of it, but there are many authors she quotes that I would like to read, and I found it interesting to be challenged and to have to focus so much on this text.

Free ARC sent by Netgalley.

Can Feminism be African? has broadened my understanding of feminism not only in Africa but also around the world.

I read a lot of feminist literature and thought I had at least a rudimentary understanding of African feminism but this book proved me wrong and showed me that I need to be broadening my reading substantially to gain a better understanding of the history and nuances of feminism across Africa both as a whole and as individual nations. Salami is direct in her criticisms of both the Western world and Western feminism. I found this particularly refreshing as it is in stark contrast to a lot of feminist literature which fails to hit home how seriously our lack of action affects others.

I highly recommend this for anyone who would like to delve deeper into intersectional feminism.

The title, Can Feminism Be African?, underscores the paradox and complexity of its central question from the very start. What follows is a thoughtful and indepth exploration the topic, breaking down the words 'African', 'feminism' and even 'be' to get to the very core of this complex subject.

While her language is dense and often tautological, Salami elucidates some striking theories on post-colonial theory, political philosophy and African culture. Starting with an inquiry into metaphysics and African identity, Salami moves through complex theories of superiorism, dualism and Andro-Africanism with deft clarity. It's not an easy read, but it is rewarding in its intensity.

Clear-sighted and thought-provoking, Can Feminism Be African? is a fascinating philosophical read.

Firstly, the title is wonderfully accessible, which hints at the accessibility of the journey the reader is about to embark on.
In this book, Salami explores the possibilities of African feminism via discussing some common and more nuanced questions about feminism. I enjoyed the balance between the anecdotal elements and the elements which were scholarly in depth, accessible in quality.
The chapters on whiteness, superiorism and dualism were eye-opening. The criticisms of individualism and euro-centrism were much needed. Overall, Salami does not shy away from discussing the pros and cons of various perspectives in feminism.
I am looking forward to reading Salami’s other work.