Shangazi Power

With Shangazi Power we aim to shift social, cultural, and historical narratives around women in civic space as a pathway to motivate their participation in democracy. Several studies have shown that systems of oppression, such as dictatorships, and patriarchy often intersect and reinforce one another. This has been evident in Africa where patriarchy has remained entrenched in all levels of society, and reverence for the Strong Leader (the Strong Man Syndrome) is still acceptable and tolerated. In recent years we have seen the revival of the syndrome in East Africa leading to increased repression and backlash against those who challenged leaders or the patriarchal image. Oppressive systems in East Africa have been challenged since independence (and even during the struggle for independence) by women who faced the dual challenge of overcoming both a political system and defying the patriarchy within movements and society at large.
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Why Shangazi

Shangazi in Kiswahili means paternal aunt and in may cultures of the region is one of the most powerful female figures in a family. There is a Swahili saying: "Shangazi ni Baba" which connotes that in the absence of the Father, the Paternal Aunt is looked upon as decision maker. The term is very respectful and different from the generally used "auntie". It gained more respect and special status in Tanzania during the reign of John Magufuli, when in 2018 he threatened people from Southern Tanzania and warned them in a speech not to try to protest otherwise he will send in forces to beat their "shangazis". This speech that was laced with such shocking violence against women that it riled up a number of them who until then, and going forward have been very critical of Magufuli's governance. Prominent "Shangazis" included Fatma Karume, Maria Sarungi, Vicensia Shule. And with time, more and more joined the ranks. Today Shangazi remains an honorific, a way to recognize women who have challenged authoritarianism, fought for rights and stood up to patriarchy.