Gender differences portrayed in Sabiny proverbs

Abstract

This study focuses on the gender differences portrayed in the Sabiny selected proverbs. It was conducted in Kabei sub county Bukwo district, Sebei region in the Eastern part of Uganda. The study applied the qualitative method of research whereby a respondent from Bukwo presented a list of proverbs with gender aspects in each. The proverbs were then analyzed for the gender difference in each of them and in the process, it was established that women are inferior in society whereas men are the superior beings more respected compared to women. Mr. Kipsiro who was a respondent also found that women are home makers whereas men oversee the affairs of the home; girls are more valued in terms of wealth they contribute to their families through pride price while boys provide security in the family. In this study also, the most outstanding difference between men and women in society is that men are regarded as naturally wise and reasonable human beings, women on the other hand are considered unreasonable. Proverbs therefore are one of the most important forms of oral literatures that communicate much about gender differences and other aspects about the Sabiny people and their culture.