Abstract
The Reed Ceremony, a traditional practice celebrated in various African communities, has garnered both admiration and criticism for its impact on the rights of women. While the ceremony is deeply entrenched in national customs, its current manifestation has raised concerns about the infringement on women's legal and human rights. This article examines how the Reed Ceremony, though a significant cultural ritual, can undermine women's autonomy, bodily rights, and legal equality. Specifically, it explores how elements of the ceremony may perpetuate gender-based discrimination, reinforce societal structures that limit women's power, and restrict their rights to make informed choices regarding consent, education, and personal freedom. The article also discusses the complex balancing act between idolization cultural traditions and upholding international human rights standards. By critically assessing the ceremony's role in modern African societies, the article calls for reforms that respect cultural identity while ensuring women's legal protection and empowerment. The goal is to find a way to honour tradition without negotiating women's fundamental rights.
Published Version
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