Our annual feminist school has become an important space for the RWA to introduce the notion of feminism into the organisation. The task of our feminist school is not simply about raising consciousness about feminism, but it is about developing and deepening consciousness of rural women, farmers and producers, both young and old, of a feminism that is rooted in Africa and in our work with nature. Our feminism needs to be relevant for our realities and a tool for effective organising. Hence, the objectives of the school are multi-faceted in that we are attempting to build conscious feminist leaders, share analyses of the ecological crises ensuring an enhanced understanding of humanity as part of nature. Additionally, we want to develop alternatives to the dominant modes of agriculture and consumption and stop ecological destruction. Critical in our process is to draw on our know- how and experience. Each year the school attempts to develop the methodology and innovate.
Feminism isn’t only for particular sector of society; it must be rooted in the grassroots. RWA puts forward alternatives like agro-ecology and seed saving and respecting nature, but alternatives are also about building movements and relationships in our families, homes and between men and women, starting with respect for ourselves. The methodology includes reading, story -telling, cultural and spiritual expressions of mystica, case-studies, presentations, film screenings, discussions and group work to mention a few. The school is also a safe space for womxn to share and discuss. One such story that emerged was about Herstory.
Rural Women's Assembly 