Islam and Gender in Ethiopia

Women have for long been neglected in social and historical studies. Works on Islam and gender in sub-Saharan Africa predominantly build on disempowerment narratives of the insignificant role of women as stipulated in the “peripheral possession” or “protest cults.” According to the recent article published in 2021 by Meron Zeleke, there are a number of Ethiopian women from different historical epochs known for their military prowess; their diplomatic skills, renowned as religious figures and more. Compared to other parts of the African continent, the role and position of women in Islam in Ethiopia is a topic that is understated with the exception of a few works addressing the formation of Muslim regional cults centering on a female figure. The topic of religious revivalism in post-1991 Ethiopia have addressed gender as a variable perspective of inquiry. This chapter gives a brief overview of women and Islam in Ethiopia. By going beyond mere focus on historical narratives, it draws on prior studies conducted by the authors.