LAUSR

abstract The role of women in the public sphere in Africa has for long been one of restriction by virtue of society’s interpretation of power along gender lines. For long, society viewed power, authority and decision-making rites as connoting masculinity and maleness, thus excluding women in the exercise of these very important social rites. Particularly prevalent was the direct and indirect restriction (fencing-in) of women in matters of the state, political participation, and in setting and implementing nation building agendas. Over the years however, women have confronted these gendered restrictions through their activism and their political and social struggles geared towards ensuring social justice across all sectors of society. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is one of such women. As a feminist, novelist and author, she has been prolific in campaigning for gender rights and women’s empowerment that cuts across all spheres. This article examines and acknowledge the role played by this iconic African female figure through her works, and the impact she has had on challenging the status quo on gender issues, and on changing the narrative to ensure social justice for all. Using her writing as a powerful medium, she has been able to advocate against various forms of society-imposed restrictions on women and against forms of discrimination. As an influencer of note, she has sought to break down otherwise established psychological and sociological barriers, and to inspire young women like herself to push out against gendered restrictions, be it in politics or whatever sphere they may choose to function in. Adichie's work extends beyond the academic realm and this article focuses on her feminist political activism through her work. Her writings and collaboration with current pop culture shifted perceptions around feminism for African women and for those in the diaspora and, as such, we see her work as a feminism without borders.