Gender equality in the sport sector : the case of selected Southern African countries

Abstract: Africa is a patriarchal society where men dominate those sectors that are considered masculine. Sport is traditionally considered a masculine activity, hence it still creates gender segregation; side-lining women from participating in sport activities and being represented in sport management structures. The aim of this article is to explore the status of gender equality in the sport sector in the Southern African context. The following 10 countries constitute African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5: Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Following a multidisciplinary research perspective, the author conducted a literature survey, document analysis, and desktop review of the challenges and realities of gender equality in the sport sector covering selected AUSC Region 5 countries in Southern Africa. Utilising a qualitative research approach, this article explores the need for gender equality in the sport sector. The findings confirm that although there is a gender-biased approach in the sport sector that can lead to social and economic development of society, it can be a platform to empower girls and women; however, a stereotypical mentality, socioeconomic barriers, and cultural norms still restrict female participation and representation in sport-related activities and processes. This article discusses these challenges and offers solutions for improvement. The article discusses that there are transformative changes in the world that force social inclusion of women in all aspects of life, including sports. These transformative changes require governments and sports organisations to reform their policies to make them more gender inclusive. This is an aspect of ongoing debates in country-specific contexts