The effect of feminism on the existence of women traditional practices: A case of Chisungu tradition of the Lenje people in Chibombo district, central province of Zambia

Feminism has significantly influenced the existence of women’s traditional practices, including the Chisungu tradition of the Lenje people in Chibombo District, Central Province of Zambia. Chisungu, a female initiation rite marking the transition from girlhood to womanhood, has historically played a crucial role in shaping social values, gender roles, and cultural identity. However, the rise of feminist movements advocating for gender equality, women’s rights, and the elimination of practices perceived as oppressive has led to a transformation in how such traditions are viewed and practiced. The research design was descriptive survey with both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. The sample size was 100 respondents; Village Head Men and Community Members (Villagers). The data collection process involved distributing the questionnaires to the selected participants and conducting individual interviews. The quantitative data collected were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods, such as descriptive statistics using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) and Microsoft excel whereas the qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that feminist advocacy has contributed to the gradual decline of certain aspects of Chisungu, particularly those perceived as reinforcing patriarchal norms and limiting women's autonomy. Additionally, education, modernization, and legal frameworks advocating for women’s rights have played a role in reshaping Chisungu, leading to a more contemporary interpretation that aligns with evolving societal values. However, tensions exist between preserving cultural heritage and embracing feminist ideals, as some community members view the transformation as an erosion of tradition. The study therefore recommended stakeholders, including cultural leaders, feminists, and policymakers, to engage in dialogue and identify ways to modernize the Chisungu tradition while ensuring that women's rights and dignity are upheld.