How Social Workers can Challenge the Subjugation of Women, Children and Older People in Africa-Cameroon and Nigeria
In Africa today, the value ,dignity and rights of women, children and older people are neither recognised nor respected.Their needs are not satisfied.It is the responsiblity of social workers to prevent hardship, suffering and subjugation of women children and older people through measures that are socially and culturally acceptable, with the collaboration of the government, individuals, families and communities.Women are subjugated in Africa in the following ways:-They are not allowed to take decisions in family matters and matters involving themselves.-They are often sexually abused and raped.-In some polygamous families with very low income, women and children fend for themselves.-They are not encouraged to participate in political activities.-Some communities defy female education.-Poor health facilities for women.This subjugation can be challenged through educating people on the rights and dignity of women, mass education of women, involvement of women in decision taking, encouraging the participation of women in political activities,providing employment opportunities for women,free health care for women especially in emergencies,strict laws against sexual abuse and rape.Children are subjugated in the following ways:-Many live in very poor conditions leading to diarrhoeal disease and malnutrition.-Many are not enrolled in schools.-Child labour, trafficking and battering abound.-Poor health facilities for children.These can be challenged through educating people on the rights of children and responsoblities of parents,discouraging polygamy,encouraging family planning and the use of contraceptives,pre-pregnancy planning [planning ahead of time],strict laws against child labour, trafficking and battering.Older people in Africa are subjugated by being neglected ,denied free health care and housing.This can be challenged by educating people on the rights and dignity of older people and how they can be catered for,providing free health care and housing as well as a minimum wage to all older people.