Browsing by Author "Samwel, Juma"

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    Affirmative actions and women’s access to and participation in local politics in Tanzania, progress, challenges and future prospects: a case study of Misungwi district, Mwanza region
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2008) Samwel, Juma
    The study investigated effectiveness of Affirmative Actions (AAs) to improve women’s access and participation in local politics in Misungwi District. Specifically, the study assessed awareness, types and outcomes of AAs, perceptions and/or attitudes, problems and challenges as well as solicited views for future prospects. To situate the study in a proper context, two theories were adopted for data collection, analysis and interpretation, namely, the Liberal Feminist Theory (LFT) and the Critical Mass Theory (CMT). The study also adopted descriptive research design whereby 102 respondents (52% men, 48% women) were involved. Data were collected using interviews, questionnaires, desk reviews as well as direct observations. Findings revealed that awareness on AAs was slightly higher among women (77.3%) than men (64.5%). Women quotas of 25% and 30% had been implemented in Village Councils (VCs) and Full Council (FC), respectively. Slightly more women (96%) than men (89%) had positive perceptions and/or attitudes towards AAs. Furthermore, AAs’ implementation was constrained by problems and challenges including inadequate target quotas, women stereotypes, patriarchy system, corruption as well as unfriendly work environment for Women Councilors attained through AA arrangements. The study concludes that to some extent, AAs had increased women’s access and participation in local politics. For future improvements the study recommends women’s quota of 50% accompanied by gender empowerment strategies. Finally, the study proposes among other things similar study in other District Councils in Tanzania.