In every corner of Ekidland’s history—behind every ancestral name, each sacred grove, and every family compound—there is the quiet but undeniable presence of Ekid women. They were not just wives and mothers; they were spiritual anchors, economic drivers, storytellers, and peacemakers.
This post explores the traditional roles, evolving identities, and transformative contributions of Ekid women—from the matriarchs of the past to the change-makers of today. In doing so, we challenge stereotypes, correct the historical record, and call for greater inclusion of women in the unfolding narrative of Ekidland’s development.
The Role of Women in Traditional Ekid Society
In precolonial Ekidland, women held central roles in both family and community life. Their responsibilities extended beyond domestic duties and into the spiritual, political, and economic spheres.
Women were:
Custodians of ancestral knowledge
Herbalists and midwives
Priestesses and dream interpreters
Farmers, fishers, and market leaders
Advisors to clan chiefs
In matrilineal traditions, the mother’s lineage often determined social standing and property rights. Older women, especially widows, were often regarded as elders with authority in village councils.
The Mbopo Institution — A Rite of Passage
One of the most distinct cultural practices involving Ekid women is the Mbopo rite—a coming-of-age ceremony where young women were secluded, nourished, educated, and celebrated before marriage.
During this rite, girls were:
Taught womanhood responsibilities by elder women
Fed special diets to beautify and strengthen them
Adorned with beads, coral, and traditional makeup
Honored with songs and dance upon reintegration
Though controversial in modern contexts, the Mbopo served as a cultural university of womanhood, rooted in dignity, preparation, and pride.
Today, some communities are reimagining the Mbopo as a mentorship program for adolescent girls—preserving its educational value while discarding outdated or oppressive elements.
Women as Healers and Herbal Scientists
Ekid women have historically served as the first line of health care through their roles as:
Birth attendants
Herbal medicine experts
Spiritual seers and dream guides
They understood the healing properties of leaves, roots, bark, and clay, passing this knowledge orally through generations. Many modern-day Ekid herbalogical practices trace their origins to female-led healing systems.
Reviving and documenting this knowledge not only preserves cultural heritage but also opens pathways for inclusive healthcare and scientific exploration.
Market Queens and Economic Backbone
From the bustling local markets of Afaha to the oil-palm groves of Esit Eket, women have historically driven the Ekid economy.
They have been:
Traders of fish, vegetables, cloth, and spices
Managers of palm oil production and storage
Providers of household and community credit
Organizers of cooperative thrift groups
In modern times, Ekid women continue to thrive in:
Agribusiness
Retail and trade networks
Digital entrepreneurship
Real estate and investment groups
The Society can amplify their efforts by promoting financial literacy, digital marketing training, and women-led cooperatives.
Women in Leadership and Advocacy
Though rarely given formal chieftaincy titles in the past, many women wielded influence as kingmakers, advisors, and peacekeepers.
Today, women of Ekidland are:
Leading NGOs and schools
Serving as local government officials
Advocating for girls’ education and health
Driving community development projects
The establishment of a Women’s Wing within the Ekid Historical Society could:
Organize intergenerational dialogue between women
Offer mentorship programs for girls
Create platforms for female historians, artists, and scientists
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite progress, Ekid women still face:
Gender-based cultural limitations
Unequal access to education and property
Lack of representation in leadership bodies
Poor documentation of their achievements
The way forward must include:
Gender equity policies within cultural and development programs
Oral history interviews with elder women across Ekid villages
Scholarship programs dedicated to training future female leaders
Conclusion: The Unwritten Half of History
The story of Ekidland is incomplete without the voices, lives, and legacies of its women. From ancient priestesses to present-day professionals, they have shaped destinies with quiet strength and unwavering wisdom.
As we build a future rooted in our past, let us honor the mothers of memory, the daughters of destiny, and the sisters of solidarity.
To tell the story of Ekid without its women is to tell only half a truth. And half a truth is not our history.
