Gender inequalities in cell phone use in the fulani cultural area of Gogounou, Benin

Abstract

Women's issues are the subject of many debates in African societies, and numerous mechanisms for promoting gender equality are gradually being put in place. However, gender inequalities still persist in the daily lives of Beninese people in terms of technology. The aim of this qualitative research project is to analyze gender inequalities in the use of cell phones in the Fulani cultural area of Gogounou. Around thirty participants from varied backgrounds were approached through a semi-structured interview, documentary research and direct observation. Analyzed through the prism of a Weberian approach updated by F. Gonthier (2004), the significant results were obtained with the help of an interview guide, a grid and a reading sheet designed accordingly. These show that gender inequalities are rooted in a duality of perspective (cult and cultural). The religious aspect should not be overlooked, given the predominance and observance of social codes, notably the Koran, in this commune of northern Benin.