WOMEN's PARTICIPATION IN DECISION MAKING AT THE TOLON COMMUNITY OF THE TOLON DISTRICT OF THE NORTHERN REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

Advocacy in promoting women participation In decision making have become key in communities. The study was conducted qualitatively with the use of an Action Research design. The sample was selected through the purposive and convenient sampling methods. About 15 women were interviewed to ascertain their opinions on the promotion of women participation in decision making at the community level. The main objective of the study was to advocate for an improvement in women participation in decision making at the community level in Tolon. Findings were analysed through thematic content analysis using themes/categories by comparing similarities of responses. Major findings centered on the development potentials of women, the participation of women in decision making the challenges faced by women to participate in decision making and the ways by which women can be empowered to efficiently participate in decisions affecting the development of Tolon. Trade, organisational skills and farming were some of the major developmental potentials of women discovered by the study. The study revealed a low participation of women in decision making in Tolon. Lack of formal education, religion and culture, and finance among others emerged as the challenges hampering women participation in decisions. To enhance women participation in decision making the study recommends that advocacy and sensitization be carried out; financial institutions must reach out to women by way of small loans facilities. The study will serve as a comprehensive document for prospective research students in the area of women and decision making.