Far & Beyon'

In Botswana, women carry a heavy burden as they attempt to resolve the magicks of tradition with the technologies of now, leading to tensions in the community.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 199 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2022
Publisher: Spinifex Press

For Mara, a mother of four and the sole provider for her family, life has never been a walk in the park. In her community, women bear an immense burden as the world around them undergoes constant transformation. In Botswana, the tensions are escalating as young individuals strive to reconcile the ancient customs and traditions with the modern technologies of the present day.

The challenges faced by Mara and her fellow women in Botswana are multifaceted. Firstly, they are tasked with fulfilling multiple roles, including being caregivers, homemakers, and breadwinners, often at the expense of their own well-being. The traditional gender roles that have been deeply ingrained in society for centuries continue to exert pressure on women, limiting their opportunities and autonomy.

Furthermore, the rapid pace of change in Botswana has brought about new challenges. The introduction of technology, particularly smartphones and the internet, has transformed the way people communicate, work, and access information. While these advancements have brought about positive changes in many aspects of life, they have also created a digital divide, leaving some individuals, particularly those in rural areas, behind.

This digital divide has significant implications for women in Botswana. It limits their access to education, employment opportunities, and healthcare services, which can have long-term consequences for their personal and professional development. Women who lack access to technology are at a disadvantage when it comes to finding information about reproductive health, family planning, and other important issues that affect their well-being.

Moreover, the increasing reliance on technology has led to the erosion of traditional values and customs in Botswana. Young people, influenced by Western culture and media, are increasingly embracing modern lifestyles and practices, which often clash with the traditional way of life. This has led to a sense of disconnection and loss of identity among some members of the community, particularly young women.

To address these challenges, there is a need for concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and individuals. The government should prioritize policies that promote gender equality, including access to education, employment opportunities, and healthcare services. It should also invest in infrastructure development, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to technology.

Civil society organizations can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the issues faced by women in Botswana and advocating for their rights. They can provide training and support to women in rural areas to help them develop skills that will enable them to participate in the digital economy and access essential services.

Individuals, too, can contribute to the efforts to empower women in Botswana. By promoting gender equality and challenging traditional gender roles, we can create a society that is more inclusive and equitable. We can also support local businesses and initiatives that empower women, such as women-owned farms and microfinance programs.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by women in Botswana are complex and multifaceted. However, by promoting gender equality, investing in infrastructure development, and challenging traditional values, we can create a society that is more inclusive and equitable for all. It is time for us to come together and work towards a brighter future for women in Botswana.

Weight: 196g
Dimension: 216 x 138 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781876756079