Intersectional Realities: A Systematic Review of Queer Feminism in Contemporary Southern African Socio-Legal Discourse

African Journal of Gender and Women Studies | Vol. 11, No. 9, August 2026 | pp. 73–80

DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJGWS/001257

Article Type: Review Article

Title: Intersectional Realities: A Systematic Review of Queer Feminism in Contemporary Southern African Socio-Legal Discourse

Names of Authors: Dr. Thabo L. Sithole¹, Dr. Zanele K. Khumalo²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Faculty of Law, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; ²Centre for Sexualities, AIDS, and Gender, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract:
This systematic review explores the evolution and integration of queer feminist theory within the socio-legal discourse of Southern Africa over the last decade. Analyzing 114 peer-reviewed articles, legal briefs, and civil society reports published between 2016 and 2026, this study charts how contemporary scholars challenge heteronormative and patriarchal legal frameworks. The review employs an intersectional African feminist framework to examine the gap between progressive constitutional guarantees and the daily realities of queer women and gender-nonconforming individuals. The findings reveal a persistent disconnect: while countries like South Africa and Botswana have advanced legal protections regarding sexual orientation, structural violence, economic exclusion, and healthcare discrimination remain pervasive. The thematic analysis identifies three dominant thematic pillars in current literature: the decolonization of gender identities, the weaponization of "traditional values" by conservative political elites, and the emergence of grassroots queer feminist resistance strategies. Additionally, the study highlights a critical gap in legal research regarding the property and inheritance rights of non-binary individuals in customary law systems. The paper argues that Southern African jurisprudence must expand its definitions of gender equality beyond binary concepts to address intersectional marginalization. It concludes by outlining an operational framework for legal reforms that protect diverse gender expressions.

Keywords: Queer Feminism, Socio-Legal Discourse, Intersectionality, Decolonization, Southern Africa, Human Rights

Manuscript Timeline: Received: April 05, 2026; Revised: June 02, 2026; Accepted: June 29, 2026; Published: August 14, 2026.

Citation: Sithole, T. L., & Khumalo, Z. K. (2026). Intersectional Realities: A Systematic Review of Queer Feminism in Contemporary Southern African Socio-Legal Discourse. African Journal of Gender and Women Studies, 11(9), 73–80. DOI: 10.46882/2026/AJGWS/001257

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