VIEWS OF COMMUNITY MEMBERS ON WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE IN THE BUILSA NORTH DISTRICT OF THE UPPER EAST REGION, GHANA

Abstract

This study examined the question of women’s participation in local governance in the Builsa North District. The main objective of the study was to examine the views of community members on the extent to which women participate in local governance in the Builsa North District. A survey design was applied in the study. Questionnaire, Key Informant Interviews guides and Focus Group Discussions guides were the main tool and methods used to collect empirical data respectively. Data analysis was qualitative and quantitative. The quantitative data were classified into themes in line with the research questions and objectives and tables and graphs generated from it using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) software. The qualitative data were analyzed through narratives and descriptions. Results of the study indicated that in the Builsa North District, women have a low representation and participation in local governance. Only three (3) women were at the Assembly (all appointed) and eight (8) women in the Unit Committees. There was no woman in the Area and Town Councils. This was as a result of the fact that, women are unable to contest and win elections like their male counterparts, tradition and cultural factors that have made women subservient to men, and financial constraints. This did not however, apply to men. The conclusion is that women are prepared to have their voices heard in the decision-making processes of the Builsa North District and other structures that provide the opportunity. Recommendations made were: sensitization of men and women on the negative aspects of culture and tradition; promotion of favorable environment for both men and women; and promoting the education and training of women in the Builsa North District.