GENDER IN THE TRADITION OF THE OVIMBUNDU OF ANGOLA

Abstract

This article is an interpretative approach to the formation of the gender category in the Ovimbundu sociocultural group (largest group in Angola) and the way it is articulated in the patrilineal and matrilineal institutions of these people. The scope of the article is to understand the impact and inclusion of women in the political and social structures of the States formed by this group. It starts from the idea that the concept of Western gender is not universal, as women in the Ovimbundu tradition are not subordinate. It is present in all structures. The article ends with the rupture that these endogenous structures suffered and how the concept of gender was assimilated in the context of the Portuguese invasion and occupation in the region. I consider that the theme of gender in traditional Ovimbundu structures is of high importance, as the identity of these people is based on the active participation of women. The writing of the article was motivated by the oppression that I have observed among rural women and even in suburban areas in this region.