Extent of Women’s Participation in Management of Rural Water Projects in Bahi District, Dodoma Region, Tanzania

Vallentina Masanja, & Laurent Kaburire
St John’s University of Tanzania
Email: tinachaya499@gmail.com

Abstract: Different parts of the world have been emphasizing the participation of women in the management of water projects, especially following the failure of different implemented projects. The current study was conducted to explore the extent to which women are involved in managing rural water projects in the Bahi District, Dodoma Region. Specifically, the study intended to assess the extent of women’s participation in the management of rural water projects. A descriptive research design was adopted in the study, while a mixed approach comprising qualitative and quantitative approaches was preferred. The study used a sample size of 136 respondents who were obtained using purposive sampling and convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and documentary review, while descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used in data analysis. The study revealed that women’s participation in the management of rural water projects in the Bahi District remains superficial and limited in scope. It was revealed that the participation of women in the management of water projects was low at different stages, especially in initiation, strategic planning, and monitoring. The study concludes that the level of women’s participation in the management of rural water projects in the Bahi District was still low at all stages, hence affecting the efficiency and sustainability of implemented projects. The study recommends that bold, enforceable actions be taken to ensure that gender equity is more than a rhetorical commitment. Additionally, ensuring public engagement and adapting project implementation to the realities of women’s lives is of paramount importance.