Review by Choice Review
Author of scholarly articles and books frequently quoted in other gender studies, this meticulous analysis of the role of women in Ugandan politics sets a standard for similar studies of other African countries. Using methodology based on a variation of Michael Bratton's theory about political autonomy and over 1,000 interviews, Tripp analyzes how women's groups strived to establish themselves as independent centers of power in the civil society. Beginning with an excellent analytical survey of factors affecting the emergence of women's groups in various African states, Tripp reviews the historical circumstances and political choices that shaped their evolution in Uganda away from ethnic and religious identities and empowered them to assert a degree of associational independence and influence over issues such as their rights as individuals and their concerns for family survival. Through numerous case studies Tripp describes how some women's groups used societal autonomy to cope with their socioeconomic conditions; while they may not have achieved as much success as they hoped, they have nevertheless acquired political clout to pursue their goals. The extensive bibliography, illustrations, maps, and appendixes enhance the book's value. Highly recommended for upper-division undergraduates and above. M. E. Doro; emeritus, Connecticut College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
