Prospects and challenges of mainstreaming gender in water user associations (WUAs) in Tanzania: a case study of great Ruaha catchment, Rufiji basin in Iringa region

This study examined prospects and challenges of mainstreaming gender in Water User Association (WUAs) in Iringa Region particularly, the Great Ruaha Catchment in Rufiji Basin. The main objective of this study was to examine prospects and challenges of main mainstreaming gender in WUAs. More specifically, the study explored the level of knowledge and awareness on the concept of gender mainstreaming among WUAs, it sought to identify prospects and entry points for mainstreaming gender in WUAs as well as examined main challenges for mainstream gender in WUA processes. The study adopted an exploratory research design with one hundred and twenty respondents. Primary data were collected using interview, questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and participant observation. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data were subjected to convent analysis. Overall, study findings showed that mainstreaming gender in WUAs remains a big challenge mainly due to low understanding and poor knowledge on gender mainstreaming among key actors. Specifically, study findings revealed that very few women are involved in WUAs due to cultural stances and norms. In addition, study findings revealed that many positions in WUAs are dominated by men. Thus, the study concludes by calling for equity in water use and management of water resources, a pattern that appears to be with good prospects and entry points for mainstreaming gender in WUAs. The study recommends for a Training Needs Assessment in order to establish exactly needs for capacity building for gender training.