Women political participation as candidates in local government and 2015 general elections: a case of Tarime district

This study focused on women political participation as candidate using Tarime District in Mara region as a case study. The study used a case study research design covering a sample size of 50 respondents who were obtained using purposive sampling technique. The data collection instrument that was used includes Focus Group Discussion and Interview schedule. Findings of the study suggest that women participation has increased in the general 2015 election, however; despite an increase in the number of women participation, still the number of women involved was still low compared to that of men. On the side of enabling factors that facilitates winning election to women as candidates, it was found out that education especially leadership education was the most important enabling factor. Other enabling factors identified include financial, moral support, respect from the community and being given leadership positions. The study identified challenging factors such as lack of training and education more particularly leadership training, financial problems and lack of confidence when standing among men. Generally, the study concludes that there is good sign of increase in women participation in election process and this is due to individual, organizational, and institutional enabling factors.