Abstract
ABSTRACT
The control of land is a subject of universal concern. It may differ slightly depending
on context or location, thus making it more difficult for marginalised groups,
specifically rural women, to gain access to land. This thesis investigates whether
traditional practices hinder or limit women’s land access. It does so by paying
particular attention to rural women in Centane villages in the Eastern Cape. The
study is conceptually framed by modernisation theory, social constructionist theory,
and the concept of the invented tradition, emphasising systems of patriarchy and
social change in traditional settings.
Some traditional practices, notably male primogeniture, discriminate against
women. This practice disempowers women and robs them of opportunities to
access land that could help them to improve their lives. However, women have not
been passive victims of culture – they have resisted discrimination and have sought
ways to survive. Likewise, the South African government has tried to empower
women and enact policies that protect women’s land rights. Unfortunately, women’s
land and property rights are not fully protected against harmful cultural practices.
Similarly, customary law tends to marginalise women by giving men preference in
land allocations.
The Centane Mbashe Agricultural Initiative (CMAI) is one instance where traditional
beliefs of male primogeniture are changing, thereby allowing women to gain access
to land, and use it to empower themselves. Ultimately, women use the land to earn
income through commercial practices. In the process, the project has improved
women's lives in Centane, among others, by providing them with multiple income
streams. The positive changes in Centane show that increasing women’s access
to land empowers them and provides a good step towards sustainable development
in the country