The transformatory potential of a village empowerment program: The Tostan replication in Mali

SynopsisLasting, deep, meaningful social change depends on the engaged involvement of those most closely affected by the change. In this article we tell the story of how the cultural practice of female genital cutting (FGC) became an important nexus of change in a non-formal education “village empowerment program” designed to empower individuals and communities through knowledge acquisition and critical awareness leading to community decision-making and action, particularly around issues related to women's health and human rights. This study uses data collected for a mixed-method, participatory evaluation of the program in Mali. Data are analyzed through the lenses of Rocha's [Rocha, Elizabeth M. (1997). A ladder of empowerment. Journal of Planning Education and Research, 17, 31–44] typology of empowerment types, and Kabeer's [Kabeer, Naila (1994). Reversed realities: Gender hierarchies in development thought. London: Verso] notion of “transformatory potential.” The process of and potential for gender transformation becomes evident in the changing role of the NGO, the ways in which both practical and strategic gender needs [Molyneux, Maxine (1985). Mobilization without emancipation? Women’s interests, state and revolution in Nicaragua. Feminist Studies, 11(2), 227–254] are addressed, and the manner in which sensitive issues such as FGC are conceptualized and discussed.