FEATURE: Contesting Sexualities in the Re-making of African Female Bodies as Sites of Power

On reading a text recently, authored by Sheila J. Wise [1], I was both surprised (at the ease with which the author felt licensed to represent the racist, sexist views of white settler males in a region that is so wrought with tension on these issues) and   deeply affected by the matter-of-fact manner in which white males referred to black women through blatantly colonial and stereotypically racist tropes, at a time when one would have hoped that they have had some kind of reflection on their brutal history and life-styles in this African place. Read full article.
By Patricia McFadden
ISSUE IN FOCUS: Scripts of Western Heteronormativity: South African 'Lifestyle' Magazines and (Hetero) Socialization

The focus of this article is how western notions of heterosexual femininities and masculinities are represented as normative in South African editions of magazines such as True Love, Femina , Fair Lady , Men's Health , Blink and For Him Magazine ( FHM ). Through constant reiteration, magazines play a critical and influential role in defining a particular kind of heterosexuality as the only acceptable sexuality to perform. Allen argues that the media is one space where "(hetero) sexual identity and discursive practices that support an active male and passive female sexuality are deeply embedded...and perceived as normative"[1]. Read full article.
By Nadia Sanger
RESEARCH NOTES: Gender Differentials in Sexuality Socialization in Ugep, Cross River State

Socialization of sexuality in the family varies according to the sociodemographic characteristics and cultural background of parents and children. Differences are grounded in a gender-based division of labour. These values are transmitted to young people during sexuality socialization, learning what constitutes reality-the basic schemes used for understanding the social and physical world. Through interaction, children acquire sexuality knowledge - norms, mores, attitudes, beliefs - and behaviour that are culturally acceptable. Socialization of boys and girls is thus essential for the renewal of culture and perpetuation of society. Individual and society are dependent on socialization. The paper presents scientific findings on the socialization of children in Ugep through gendered division of labour. Read full article. 
By Koblowe Obono and Oka Obono
   
   

EDITORIAL: Socialization and Healthy Sexuality: Transforming Boundaries

This article examines the socialization process in the field of sexuality and argues that there is a need to go beyond primary socialization to promote sexual health and wellness. . Read full article
By Richmond Tiemoko

VIEWPOINT: 'The Trouble With Men'- Frameworks For African Masculinities

I am African, by South African birth and upbringing, and by feeling that I belong in Africa. My South African 'white', English-speaking, middle-class social identity often results in incorrect assumptions about my intentions, feelings and self-identity, and presumptions that I do or should subscribe to certain ideals, aspirations and frames of reference. Read full article
By Lincoln Theo

REGION WATCH: Mobilizing Communities For Girls Education in Egypt :The New Horizon and New Visions Programmes

The Centre for Development and Population Activities (CEDPA) since 1994 has developed and implemented the Towards New Horizons and New Visions programs in Egypt. New Horizons is an inventive, informal education program for girls.
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