Gender inequality and diseases in Nigeria: a case study of HIV/AIDS and malaria

Abstract

Virtually all traditional African societies were characterized by various forms of inequality. To be sure, economic inequality was rare; but gerontocratic and gender-based practices that verged on the threshold of social inequality featured prominently. Contemporary African societies still harbour relics of this “unnatural” and counter-developmental phenomenon, but in varying degrees. There is no denying the fact that Western values and standards are gradually replacing some traditional norms and values in Nigeria. These changes notwithstanding, gender inequality still pervades and the level of awareness among women is still relatively very low. The traditional notion of women as second-rate members of societies who should not be entitled to equal rights with the male folk has constituted a clog in the wheel of the process of actualizing the Millennium Development Goals in Africa. This study focuses on gender related forms of inequality, which it correlates with the rate of spread of HIV/AIDS and malaria among women. It posits that some of our cultural practices bordering on gender inequality unfairly divest women of their “rights”. These practices and some natural factors make them more vulnerable. It therefore advocates a radical reconsideration of our “traditional” values and perspective, and suggests that public policies should incorporate practical approaches tailored towards achieving increased economic, political and educational empowerment as well as legal safeguards for women.