In a world where cultures evolve, there's a timeless concept that beckons us to remember the wisdom of ancestors. Sankofa—a symbol of wisdom in Akan culture, nowadays West Africa like Ghana and Ivory Coast—encourages us to reach back and reclaim traditions that hold the keys to a fulfilling and empowered sex life
In this article, we delve into Sankofa Love’s sex tips that invites us to revisit the age-old traditions of sexual education in Africa, unlocking a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom that is as relevant today as it was centuries ago. Our focus in particular will be on Sankofa Love’s advice for finding a remedy to the orgasm gap.
THE ORGASM GAP
The concept of the orgasm gap—alternatively referred to as orgasm inequality—has been introduced to delineate the observed disparity in orgasm frequency within sexual partnerships. Following the Kinsey Report of 1953, researchers employ this construct as a metric to assess variations in sexual satisfaction across diverse demographic groups.
It must be noted that an individual's sexual well-being cannot be singularly quantified by the frequency of orgasms experienced. Nevertheless, empirical investigations have consistently revealed a substantial divergence in orgasm occurrence between male and female partners within heterosexual relationships as mentioned in various publications.
In heterosexual contexts, women experience orgasm less frequently than men—but everyone deserves to have a fulfilling and exciting sexual life. Social explanations for this gap connect it to cultural norms that privilege men’s pleasure and preferences in the western world. However, the African continent offers us a different perspective and possibly a remedy to the orgasm gap in the Kunyaza technique.
THE ENIGMATIC WORLD OF KUNYAZA
Now, let's venture further into the intriguing realm of Kunyaza.
The name for this ancient practice, in the Kinyarwanda language, intriguingly translates to "urinating" or "to make urinate." However, it's important to clarify that Kunyaza goes far beyond any literal connection to urination. Instead, it delves deep into the pursuit of sexual pleasure and intimate connection, bearing immense cultural significance within African heritage, passed down through generations.
Kunyaza's enigmatic origin traces back to Nyanza, once the capital of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Rwanda. As folklore has it, the practice's genesis is intertwined with the story of a queen who selected one of her guards for a sexual encounter. Despite performance anxiety that hindered penetration, an alternative form of sensual satisfaction unfolded as the guard's trembling movements ignited pleasure by stimulating the queen's labia and clitoris.
This tale highlights the queen's pursuit of satisfaction, portraying her sexual independence and control over her own body—a narrative that still resonates in contemporary times, where many individuals around the world, particularly those with vulvae, continue to seek those pleasures and its politics.
At its core, Kunyaza is a sensual art designed to enhance sexual pleasure for all parties involved. It emphasises open communication, emotional connection, and the pursuit of mutual satisfaction. The practice comprises various techniques, including rhythmic movements and precise pressure on specific erogenous zones.
Kunyaza isn't just a physical act: it's a cultural ritual that underscores the paramount importance of intimacy within relationships. It recognizes the profound significance of sexual satisfaction in the holistic well-being of individuals and their partnerships.
The Intricacies of Kunyaza
A 2010 study by Dr. Nsekuye Bizimana, an expert in this art, breaks down Kunyaza into two distinct phases. The first phase involves stimulating the labia minora by tapping and rubbing with the penis. As arousal intensifies, the internal surfaces of the labia minora and the vulval vestibule, including the urinary meatus, receive similar stimulation, followed by the clitoris, vulval vestibule, labia minora, and the vaginal opening.
The second phase introduces penetrating the vagina with alternating shallow thrusts known as "gucuga" at the vaginal opening and deeper thrusts called "gucumita," pressing against the cervix. All of this occurs alongside exaggerated circular movements between the vaginal walls, a technique akin to a "screwing" motion during penetration.
It's worth noting that this practice is known to bring about sexual pleasure for the vast majority. In fact, a survey found that 92% of individuals with vulvae can achieve orgasm through the Kunyaza technique. Although it's relatively uncommon, there are individuals who do not experience the same level of pleasure through this practice, often referred to derogatorily as "mukagatare," meaning 'rock-woman' in Kinyarwanda.
In Sacred Water, a documentary exploring this practice, sexologist Vestine Dusabe estimates between 80 to 90 percent of Rwandan women experience sexual pleasure through Kunyaza. What's truly crucial is the partner's skill in making it happen, emphasising the art of connection and intimacy.
Kunyaza isn't just a technique; it's a window into the diverse world of human sensuality, an art of passion that unites tradition, connection, and pleasure. In a modern age of openness and communication, the teachings of Kunyaza remain more relevant than ever, inviting us to embrace and celebrate the profound beauty of sexual connection.
Written by Oya Simbo.
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