health
March 11, 2026
‘Imagine, if everyone had a sex auntie’: Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah on tradition as a basis for pleasure
The author tells how chronicling the sex lives of African women led her to many examples of openness around the body grounded in love and care
TL;DR
- Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah's new book, 'Seeking Sexual Freedom,' examines African rites and rituals to promote new models of sexual freedom.
- The book revisits traditional practices, such as the Ghanaian 'Dipo' and the role of Ugandan 'ssengas' (sex aunties), to encourage openness about sexuality and bodies.
- Sekyiamah contrasts these traditions with the perceived conservatism of Abrahamic faiths, suggesting indigenous practices offer a more expansive approach to sexual education.
- Practices like 'pulling' among Baganda girls, though sometimes controversial, are presented as a way to foster familiarity and positive engagement with one's own genitalia.
- The concept of 'Sankofa' is used to advocate for retrieving beneficial aspects of African history to inform present and future sexual well-being.
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