Changes in Roles of African Women Triggered by Colonial Rule Essay

Changes in Roles of African Women Triggered by Colonial Rule - Essay Example The period of colonization initiated discomfort and trust issues between the British and Agikuyu(Finke, par 2). Even though the regions of Kenya were unknown to the British, they immediately chose regions of Kenya that had contents of resources that were of great value to the economy. By this, the British ensured that there would be less cost in running administrative affairs of a colony. The Agikuyutribe was spread in central Kenya, and the area was densely fertile. The new colonists took benefit of the fertile land by farming on a large basis. They farmed extensively because there were scarce resources (Finke, par 7). Due to this act of the colonists, the Agikuyu had to leave some of their lands. The domestic and other roles of women such as cooking, bearing children, mat weaving, transportation of goods and going to the marketplace had changed due to the effect of the colonists. The locals had lost their lands due to compulsion from the colonists. These events changed the perspect ive of the women in several ways (Turner, par. 16).Introduction of Christianity:The first and foremost that the colonists brought about in women were change in beliefs. The locals had believed in traditional beliefs but as per changer, they converted to Christianity. This change of faith was spread through the colonies (Afrikan Eye, par. 8). Another change in the Kikuyu women was a change of roles. The women previously were labors but after the colonial rule they lost control of their products and were paid for their work.