Patriarchal Authority, Gendered Displacement, and Women’s Entry into Transactional Prostitution: A Comparative Analysis of Kannywood Films Ƙona Gari and Ankon Biki (Korarriya)

Abstract

Film strongly shapes societal perceptions by conveying powerful images, messages, and moral narratives to a wide audience. Particularly in African cinema and Kannywood (Hausa-language Nigerian cinema) in particular prostitution is often portrayed at the intersection of poverty, gender inequality, and socio-political dynamics. This paper examines transactional prostitution the exchange of sex for material gain as depicted in Ƙona Gari, and Ankon Biki (Korarriya). Using Social Constructionism and Feminist Theory, it explores these films’ portrayals of the dangers and moral complications of prostitution, the influence of patriarchal rejection, and the wider societal implications. It also draws on Differential Association Theory, Social Bond Theory, and Differential Opportunity Theory to critique how Kannywood both reflects and potentially shapes public attitudes toward transactional sex. The analysis argues that patriarchal structures and gendered displacement serve as key catalysts for women’s turn toward prostitution.