Double pandemic for Sub-Saharan African women during COVID-19: A Critical Patriarchal Exposé with Intervention Strategies

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic presented a lot of macro and micro challenges throughout the entire world. While some of these impacts were immediately felt, others have long term consequences. Some of the major impacts were the macroeconomic challenge which left many governments, organisations and individuals in a state of disarray - causing a lot of physical and mental health issues among both men and women. However, research suggests that women were disproportionately affected by mental health issues. This is because women especially in Sub-Saharan Africa are considered to be ‘vulnerable’ to several of the major challenges facing the continent and the burdens they carry make them susceptible to mental health problems. Against this background, this study explores three key areas: the relationship between patriarchy and gender-based violence during COVID-19 in Africa, how the pandemic exacerbated existing gender inequalities, and the impact of COVID-19 on women's mental health. This study is a literature review that draws on academic journals, books, reports, media sources and electronic databases. The study concludes that the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted African women, leading to a rise in gender-based violence, a widening of existing gender inequalities, and a negative impact on women’s mental health. The study recommends strengthening existing traditional social support structures, such as families and women's groups, to better equip them to assist women during crises.