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The Dangers of Skin Bleaching

Are creams for lightening black skin just a beauty aid, or damaging to cultural identity?

Since a government ban, nine women in Gambia have been prosecuted for buying skin bleaching cream, which can lead to skin problems and even cancer. But do these creams also damage the identity and sexuality of African women?

Also on the programme: A woman has put herself forward as presidential candidate in the Kenyan elections for the first time. Women make up just 3% of their Parliament – why? Plus, a South Indian graduate talks candidly about her arranged marriage to a man who doesn't approve of women working.

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29 minutes

Ö÷²¥´óÐã World Service Archive

This programme was restored as part of the World Service archive project