GENDER AND PARTICIPATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HOUSEHOLD WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN THE BUILSA SOUTH DISTRICT

Abstract

Gender participation is fundamental to ensuring ownership, usage and sustainability of rural water facilities. This, however, remains elusive despite several efforts to achieve equal women participation with men. This study assessed the level and effectiveness of gender participation in household water management against the socio-cultural constraints in the Builsa South District. Data was collected from a total of 293 respondents using questionnaires administration, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study revealed that, although water and sanitation committees constituted the 40% women membership, women occupied positions of lesser decision making authority. Also, women's participation was assessed to be generally low compared to men in all the stages of water management. Although women were found more regular at community meetings on water issues, men influenced decision outcomes at such meetings. A chi square test revealed that age and sex significantly influence an individual's participation. Also, male dominance, lack of confidence to engage in public discussions and women's domestic workload were the major constraints to women's participation. The study concluded that policy interventions have succeeded in granting women the freedom to participate. However, much remains to be done in building their capacity to participate under rural conditions. The study advocates that agencies and stakeholders should inculcate gender analysis and main streaming into the general planning, implementation and monitoring of rural water programs.