Factors Influencing Women Participation in Politics in Tanzania: A Case Study of Arusha Region

Irene Ndossy, Samwel Werema

Abstract: The paper examines the factors that influence women participation in politics in Tanzania. The paper dwells on gender inequality, legal framework and economic status. The study adopted case study research design under both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A sample of 30 respondents are used. The study finds that gender inequality is a strong influence that limits women from participating in politics. The other factors such as legal framework and economic status were also found affecting the women participation in politics in Tanzania. Furthermore, the study revealed that, the level of education and employment status of women have great contribution in the women participation in politics. The study recommends that gender equity should be considered very much within the political parties. Civic education should be enhanced by both the government and other stakeholders so as to continue enlightening the society on the inclusive politics.

Keywords: Women in politics, gender inequality, economic status, legal framework, and the level of education