Navigating Politics of Identity, Sex & Sexuality for African Women

In Conversation with Nana Darkoa-Sekyiamah, author of The Sex Lives of African Women.

Despite discussion around intersectionality, identity, sex and sexuality gaining momentum in public spaces in the recent past, sex still largely remains a taboo topic in most African households, countries and communities. Young girls often lack comprehensive sexual education and are left to their own devices to navigate their sexual journeys, exposing an already vulnerable cohort to dangers of exploitation and abuse. In addition, the messaging that sex and sexuality can only be expressed within certain parameters (in most cases marriage) further contributes to the misconception, confusion and misnotions around sexuality.

Women who are sexually forward and bold enough to go against societal norms and resist patriarchal ideations of what sexuality should look like for a woman, often find themselves on a lonely path marred by judgment and misunderstanding. In a world where expression of female sexuality is heavily policed either by patriarchal societal norms, the law or religion, the importance of opening up dialogue around sexual freedom can therefore not be overstated.

In July 2021, Ghanaian Feminist Activist and award-winning blogger, Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah published her highly subversive and critically acclaimed book ‘The Sex Lives of African Women’ chronicling in raw and honest form the journeys to sexual freedom of African women from over 30 African countries and its global diaspora. The book almost immediately took a life of its own and we have witnessed a quiet but hungry and glaring interest. The reception from women has been overwhelming, speaking to a curiosity around the women and the stories in the book and prompting the need for a wider conversation around the subject matter.

Soma Nami Café hosted Nana Darkoa-Sekyiamah, author of The Sex Lives of African Women at hybrid in-person and virtual event. The event was a roundtable discussion with a panel of formidable women who have been bold in living their truths. Nana joined us online and we had a panel featuring Beverley Mungai, a pleasure advocate who specializes in adult toys, Philester Abdallah – chairperson of Kenya Sex Workers Alliance whose story was featured in the book. This conversation was moderated by Makena Ireri – fierce advocate for diversity, , inclusivity and justice who did a great job in directing this conversation.

Singer/songwriter Olivia Ambani provided the acoustics and serenaded the event and provide much needed interludes

We also had a pop-up market where different vendors got to display and sell their wares. This was in our effort to support other small business and entrepreneurs. Supporting our partnered vendors is also a way to support the Soma Nami Cafe to allow us host similar events.