Women workers
- CWIU
- Authors: CWIU
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: CWIU
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178894 , vital:43009
- Description: In South Africa the majority of women workers are oppressed and exploited as workers,blacks and as women. Our resolution says that one of the key ways women can take up their rightful place as active members and leaders of our society is through active policies of affirmative action at the workplace and within our own organisations. The resolution calls on employers to work towards ending discrimination at the workplace as quickly as possible and for an end to discrimination within our own organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
- Authors: CWIU
- Date: 1991
- Subjects: CWIU
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178894 , vital:43009
- Description: In South Africa the majority of women workers are oppressed and exploited as workers,blacks and as women. Our resolution says that one of the key ways women can take up their rightful place as active members and leaders of our society is through active policies of affirmative action at the workplace and within our own organisations. The resolution calls on employers to work towards ending discrimination at the workplace as quickly as possible and for an end to discrimination within our own organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1991
Women Leadership in COSATU
- NALEDI
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/151370 , vital:39059
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women’s representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/151370 , vital:39059
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women’s representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
Women Leadership in COSATU
- NALEDI
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/151630 , vital:39155
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women's representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
- Authors: NALEDI
- Date: 1999
- Subjects: NALEDI
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/151630 , vital:39155
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women's representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999
Women’s Leadership in COSATU: Research Report, March 1999
- Authors: Orr, Liesl
- Date: 1999-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , pamphlet
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/112470 , vital:33585
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women’s representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999-03
- Authors: Orr, Liesl
- Date: 1999-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , pamphlet
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/112470 , vital:33585
- Description: The aim of this paper is to provide updated figures on women’s representation in leadership structures in COSATU. These figures enable the federation to review progress and to set targets for women’s leadership, as resolved in the 1997 COSATU Congress. The paper provides the most recent statistics (for 1998) on women’s leadership in COSATU at regional and national level. The intention of this report was to focus on collecting the actual figures and is therefore confined to a more quantitative (statistical) reflection on women’s leadership. It will be valuable to embark on further research that examines the qualitative aspects, in other words, women’s experiences of leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1999-03
Rural women's representation and participation in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland central provinces of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Kurebwa, Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- Women -- Zimbabwe , Public administration -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020085
- Description: This study focused on the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland Central provinces of Zimbabwe. It argued that increased representation and participation of women in local governance, particularly as ward councillors and senior administrative employees, is important and should be pursued. This has the potential to change the local governance system. The research further argued that change is more likely to occur when elected women are supported by the presence of more women at the most senior administrative levels in the local governance system. The presence of more women is required if the local governance system is to become inclusive of the diversity of the people it represents, especially women. This study rejected the assumption that rural women are passive recipients of local governance since they contribute significantly in fulfilling household and community needs and interests. Through their knowledge and understanding of the construction of power relations at the local level, rural women have creatively managed to produce, reproduce and use alternative strategies which are based on their sexuality and traditional gender roles in challenging and transforming gender inequality at the local level and in improving the quality of rural women. A National Gender Management System (NGMS) that can be used to effectively promote gender equity, equality and justice in local authorities has been developed. It is desirable that the NGMS be established within the existing organisational framework of central and local governments in Zimbabwe. This should be connected to the national structures to ensure that local level activities are systematically accounted for at the national level. The NGMS recognises the strategic importance of building partnerships with social actors at all levels. Qualitative research method was used in the study. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the two selected provinces in Zimbabwe, namely Masvingo and Mashonaland Central. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires, while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, and peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that rural women face a number of constraints in getting access to and participating in local governance. Some of the constraints include; cultural beliefs; violence against women; lack of resources; lack of mutual support among women; domestic responsibilities; and institutional factors. The contributions of the research to the study of women in local governance are discussed. Recommendations to increase the participation of women in local governance are made. These include creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment, gender-responsive budgets, capacity-building programmes, establishment of gender focal points, gender management committees and teams, increasing women’s self-worth and changing perceptions by men. The study also found that decentralisation in Zimbabwe has not brought local governance closer to rural women due to the interweaving cultural, structural, physical and financial barriers local government faces in ensuring gender equality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kurebwa, Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- Women -- Zimbabwe , Public administration -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020085
- Description: This study focused on the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the Masvingo and Mashonaland Central provinces of Zimbabwe. It argued that increased representation and participation of women in local governance, particularly as ward councillors and senior administrative employees, is important and should be pursued. This has the potential to change the local governance system. The research further argued that change is more likely to occur when elected women are supported by the presence of more women at the most senior administrative levels in the local governance system. The presence of more women is required if the local governance system is to become inclusive of the diversity of the people it represents, especially women. This study rejected the assumption that rural women are passive recipients of local governance since they contribute significantly in fulfilling household and community needs and interests. Through their knowledge and understanding of the construction of power relations at the local level, rural women have creatively managed to produce, reproduce and use alternative strategies which are based on their sexuality and traditional gender roles in challenging and transforming gender inequality at the local level and in improving the quality of rural women. A National Gender Management System (NGMS) that can be used to effectively promote gender equity, equality and justice in local authorities has been developed. It is desirable that the NGMS be established within the existing organisational framework of central and local governments in Zimbabwe. This should be connected to the national structures to ensure that local level activities are systematically accounted for at the national level. The NGMS recognises the strategic importance of building partnerships with social actors at all levels. Qualitative research method was used in the study. The study used both primary and secondary data in analysing the representation and participation of rural women in local governance in the two selected provinces in Zimbabwe, namely Masvingo and Mashonaland Central. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires, while secondary data was gathered through a literature survey of relevant textbooks, newspapers, and peer-reviewed journals, reports and legislation. The research findings indicated that rural women face a number of constraints in getting access to and participating in local governance. Some of the constraints include; cultural beliefs; violence against women; lack of resources; lack of mutual support among women; domestic responsibilities; and institutional factors. The contributions of the research to the study of women in local governance are discussed. Recommendations to increase the participation of women in local governance are made. These include creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment, gender-responsive budgets, capacity-building programmes, establishment of gender focal points, gender management committees and teams, increasing women’s self-worth and changing perceptions by men. The study also found that decentralisation in Zimbabwe has not brought local governance closer to rural women due to the interweaving cultural, structural, physical and financial barriers local government faces in ensuring gender equality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
South African women in politics: the case study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Sokani, Andile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3835-3501
- Authors: Sokani, Andile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3835-3501
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Women -- Political activity -- South Africa , Women government executives
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22340 , vital:52026
- Description: Many barriers exist for women to participating in local or national politics and decisionmaking. This study, which was conducted in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, examines and highlights the extent to which South Africa has provided opportunities for women to participate in local politics and decisionmaking in local government. According to research, women face gender discrimination in local politics, particularly in provinces such as the Eastern Cape, where patriarchy still exists. Despite the fact that much work has been done in South Africa to combat gender discrimination, including in politics, women continue to be under-represented in local politics and decision-making. The study was founded on Feminist theory to draw attention to the issue of women's under-representation in politics. Feminists believe that the benefits and burdens of social, economic, and political life are gendered. According to feminist theory, the gender-power-order is always present in our society. The notion that women and their situations are central to political analysis is a central feature of feminist political theory, with its interest in questioning the fact that men appear to have more power and privilege than women and how this can be changed. The mixed-methods research approach was used in the study, and 200 members of the community were given questionnaires. Ten in-depth interviews with female Proportional Representation and Ward Councillors from the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province were conducted. The study's data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) for quantitative data and NVivo 12 Pro for qualitative data. Based on the study's theoretical frameworks, the findings revealed that, despite national and international policy and legislative provisions on women's empowerment and gender equality, women continue to face institutional gendered challenges. The researcher observed that, while there are policies encouraging women to participate in politics, the implementation of those policies is not uniform, according to those who participated in the study. The findings argued that existing policies should be implemented in order for women to participate in politics. The government must ensure that these policies are implemented so that women can fully participate in politics. The study's findings revealed that there are ongoing gender dynamics, stereotypes, and perceptions of women in politics and decision-making in local municipalities, particularly in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. According to the study's findings, women should be empowered in the right way. The study also recommended that young females be educated about politics in order to increase their participation in politics. Furthermore, the study suggested that political parties in BCM should encourage women to participate in politics in their constitutions. Political parties in BCM should prioritize women because they are a direct pathway for women to elected office and political leadership. Finally, the study advocated for a greater effort to break down traditional stereotypes and prejudices that make women's ascension and retention in positions of authority difficult. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Sokani, Andile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3835-3501
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Women -- Political activity -- South Africa , Women government executives
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22340 , vital:52026
- Description: Many barriers exist for women to participating in local or national politics and decisionmaking. This study, which was conducted in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, examines and highlights the extent to which South Africa has provided opportunities for women to participate in local politics and decisionmaking in local government. According to research, women face gender discrimination in local politics, particularly in provinces such as the Eastern Cape, where patriarchy still exists. Despite the fact that much work has been done in South Africa to combat gender discrimination, including in politics, women continue to be under-represented in local politics and decision-making. The study was founded on Feminist theory to draw attention to the issue of women's under-representation in politics. Feminists believe that the benefits and burdens of social, economic, and political life are gendered. According to feminist theory, the gender-power-order is always present in our society. The notion that women and their situations are central to political analysis is a central feature of feminist political theory, with its interest in questioning the fact that men appear to have more power and privilege than women and how this can be changed. The mixed-methods research approach was used in the study, and 200 members of the community were given questionnaires. Ten in-depth interviews with female Proportional Representation and Ward Councillors from the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province were conducted. The study's data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) for quantitative data and NVivo 12 Pro for qualitative data. Based on the study's theoretical frameworks, the findings revealed that, despite national and international policy and legislative provisions on women's empowerment and gender equality, women continue to face institutional gendered challenges. The researcher observed that, while there are policies encouraging women to participate in politics, the implementation of those policies is not uniform, according to those who participated in the study. The findings argued that existing policies should be implemented in order for women to participate in politics. The government must ensure that these policies are implemented so that women can fully participate in politics. The study's findings revealed that there are ongoing gender dynamics, stereotypes, and perceptions of women in politics and decision-making in local municipalities, particularly in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. According to the study's findings, women should be empowered in the right way. The study also recommended that young females be educated about politics in order to increase their participation in politics. Furthermore, the study suggested that political parties in BCM should encourage women to participate in politics in their constitutions. Political parties in BCM should prioritize women because they are a direct pathway for women to elected office and political leadership. Finally, the study advocated for a greater effort to break down traditional stereotypes and prejudices that make women's ascension and retention in positions of authority difficult. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
The participation of rural women in local governance structures in Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality since 2013
- Authors: Mathabathe, Pheladi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Limpopo -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Rural women -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6530 , vital:21104
- Description: The rural women in EMLM hew the wood, carry water, satisfy the men, produce and take care of the children to continue the family tree, and manage all the household chores. Their contribution is central to the effective functioning of families and communities. Yet, in terms of decision-making and local governance structures, they are absent. Indeed, there is truly a large constituency of women out there who are largely unrepresented; and therefore, they have no idea how governance is conducted – even around them. This is unfair, especially in jurisdictions where women are clearly in the majority. It is inconceivable that local governance structures have over a decade recorded only a single elected female member. With this in mind, this study seeks to explore the extent of rural women’s participation in local governance in Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality. It is a comparison of traditional and democratic local governance structures; and the methods the researcher has used are qualitative and quantitative data on women councillors from 2013, in order to assess the factors that may be accountable for their small numbers, as compared to their male counterparts. The conclusion drawn was that the social structure, its traditions and cultural was identified in the study as the main obstacle to the advancement of women in the political arena. This study has not exhausted all the facets of the challenges; but it has brought a few to the fore, in an attempt to help stimulate debate, and inform policy and practice in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mathabathe, Pheladi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Limpopo -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Rural women -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6530 , vital:21104
- Description: The rural women in EMLM hew the wood, carry water, satisfy the men, produce and take care of the children to continue the family tree, and manage all the household chores. Their contribution is central to the effective functioning of families and communities. Yet, in terms of decision-making and local governance structures, they are absent. Indeed, there is truly a large constituency of women out there who are largely unrepresented; and therefore, they have no idea how governance is conducted – even around them. This is unfair, especially in jurisdictions where women are clearly in the majority. It is inconceivable that local governance structures have over a decade recorded only a single elected female member. With this in mind, this study seeks to explore the extent of rural women’s participation in local governance in Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality. It is a comparison of traditional and democratic local governance structures; and the methods the researcher has used are qualitative and quantitative data on women councillors from 2013, in order to assess the factors that may be accountable for their small numbers, as compared to their male counterparts. The conclusion drawn was that the social structure, its traditions and cultural was identified in the study as the main obstacle to the advancement of women in the political arena. This study has not exhausted all the facets of the challenges; but it has brought a few to the fore, in an attempt to help stimulate debate, and inform policy and practice in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Gender paper to be presented to the ANC Policy Conference 2012: discussion document
- African National Congress (ANC)
- Authors: African National Congress (ANC)
- Date: 2012-02-01
- Subjects: South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994- , Social planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: book , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68675 , vital:29304
- Description: This document is informed by the struggles of women in the fight against colonialism and apartheid which were also encapsulated in the Women’s Charter of 1954. The discussion is also premised on the charter that women drew up in 1993, prior to the 1994 elections. Our Constitution, in its quest to protect and promote gender equality in South Africa, drew largely from these documents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012-02-01
- Authors: African National Congress (ANC)
- Date: 2012-02-01
- Subjects: South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994- , Social planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: book , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68675 , vital:29304
- Description: This document is informed by the struggles of women in the fight against colonialism and apartheid which were also encapsulated in the Women’s Charter of 1954. The discussion is also premised on the charter that women drew up in 1993, prior to the 1994 elections. Our Constitution, in its quest to protect and promote gender equality in South Africa, drew largely from these documents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012-02-01
Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) Baseline gender survey
- Authors: Benjamin, Nina
- Date: 2008
- Language: English
- Type: article , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60109 , vital:27737
- Description: This Gender Survey is about exploring both the nature of as well as the shifts in the gender relations between men women in the construction sector. The report is defining gender relations as the power relations between men and women. In the context of the construction sector, workers and particularly semi and unskilled workers generally have appalling working conditions. These conditions affect both men and women workers but the vast majority of women workers find themselves right at the bottom of a hierarchy that is shaped by class, race and gender. Large multinational construction companies are still owned and controlled by rich white men while black women, youth and the disabled find themselves right at the bottom of the hierarchy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Benjamin, Nina
- Date: 2008
- Language: English
- Type: article , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60109 , vital:27737
- Description: This Gender Survey is about exploring both the nature of as well as the shifts in the gender relations between men women in the construction sector. The report is defining gender relations as the power relations between men and women. In the context of the construction sector, workers and particularly semi and unskilled workers generally have appalling working conditions. These conditions affect both men and women workers but the vast majority of women workers find themselves right at the bottom of a hierarchy that is shaped by class, race and gender. Large multinational construction companies are still owned and controlled by rich white men while black women, youth and the disabled find themselves right at the bottom of the hierarchy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Assessing the impact of integrated development planning (IDP) on gender equality and women's empowerment in South Africa: a case study of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality
- Authors: Mpofu, Sibongile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Women in development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Equality -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4751 , vital:20672
- Description: The South African local government is expected to conform to all national policy directives including the principle of gender equality. Local government provides an immense opportunity for redressing imbalances and empowerment of women as they are the most negatively affected by poverty as a result of inequality. The South African Government has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures that women are empowered and participate in their own development. With all the legislation in place, women‟s empowerment as envisaged in the South African Constitution has, however, not yet been yielded the desired results as evidenced by the fact that women continue to remain disadvantaged in relation to men. This study therefore seeks to investigate whether and how the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) has mainstreamed gender in support to the principles of gender equality and women‟s empowerment in the implementation of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) with particular reference to wards 15 and 17. The researcher used a mixed methods research approach, this means that the study followed both the qualitative and quantitative approaches for in-depth understanding followed in the design and implementation of the IDP process. Data was collected from women participants by conducting surveys, making use of questionnaires. Structured interviews were conducted with municipality officials in order to give more insight more insight into how the IDP process is initiated in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality. The findings of the study revealed that there is a lack of a strategic understanding of gender mainstreaming particularly by the leadership of the municipality. This as a result, has made operationalisation and engendering the IDP difficult. Due to this strategic vacuum, gender is generally not taken seriously when compared to other developmental challenges such as infrastructure provision. Moreover, the municipality does not have a coordination mechanism nor does it have a proper consultation mechanism to ensure that the nature of development projects is appropriate, effective and actually targets women‟s developmental needs. The leadership of the municipality must commit to the process of gender mainstreaming if the IDP is to be an effective tool in addressing the gender imbalances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mpofu, Sibongile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Women in development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Equality -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4751 , vital:20672
- Description: The South African local government is expected to conform to all national policy directives including the principle of gender equality. Local government provides an immense opportunity for redressing imbalances and empowerment of women as they are the most negatively affected by poverty as a result of inequality. The South African Government has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures that women are empowered and participate in their own development. With all the legislation in place, women‟s empowerment as envisaged in the South African Constitution has, however, not yet been yielded the desired results as evidenced by the fact that women continue to remain disadvantaged in relation to men. This study therefore seeks to investigate whether and how the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) has mainstreamed gender in support to the principles of gender equality and women‟s empowerment in the implementation of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) with particular reference to wards 15 and 17. The researcher used a mixed methods research approach, this means that the study followed both the qualitative and quantitative approaches for in-depth understanding followed in the design and implementation of the IDP process. Data was collected from women participants by conducting surveys, making use of questionnaires. Structured interviews were conducted with municipality officials in order to give more insight more insight into how the IDP process is initiated in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality. The findings of the study revealed that there is a lack of a strategic understanding of gender mainstreaming particularly by the leadership of the municipality. This as a result, has made operationalisation and engendering the IDP difficult. Due to this strategic vacuum, gender is generally not taken seriously when compared to other developmental challenges such as infrastructure provision. Moreover, the municipality does not have a coordination mechanism nor does it have a proper consultation mechanism to ensure that the nature of development projects is appropriate, effective and actually targets women‟s developmental needs. The leadership of the municipality must commit to the process of gender mainstreaming if the IDP is to be an effective tool in addressing the gender imbalances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The participation of women entrepreneurs in local economic development in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Awoyemi, Oluwabunmi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Economic development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9179 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020145
- Description: The purpose of local economic development (LED) is to build up the economic capacity of a community, to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. It is a process by which public, business and nongovernmental sector partners work collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment generation (World Bank, 2006). In achieving the above definition of LED by the World Bank, the participation of community members in this process cannot be over emphasized. Women entrepreneurs are a driving force in today’s modern world. Most researches on women entrepreneurs in developed countries have showed that there are significant improvements in the economic growth of these countries as a result of the entrepreneurial activities of these women. However, there are limited statistics on the impact of women entrepreneurs in developing countries. The context of this research area is the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). This research makes a contribution to the existing body of knowledge about the promotion of LED through the participation of women entrepreneurs in NMBM. A group of women entrepreneurs in the metro completed a questionnaire. The aim of the questionnaires was to help identify their nature of business, years of being in business and most importantly, challenges each one of them encounter in carrying out their business operations and in developing their entrepreneurial skills. The research methods used in the study are the qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative method approach is used in the literature review. The literature review formed the conceptual basis against which the information gained from questionnaires were analysed. The quantitative method included the use of questionnaires. The data collected in this study revealed that the activities of women entrepreneurs contributed in their own little way to the growth and development of the metro. The study further reveals that finance is one of the major challenges of the women entrepreneurs as supported by the findings in the literature review. Therefore, if access to finance and support system are made readily available for women entrepreneurs, they would be able to make a significant impact in the development of the metro and nation at large. In conclusion, the researcher has been able to identify some of the challenges women entrepreneur face through the experience of the respondents in the study. The researcher has also been able to demonstrate how the aims and the objectives of the study have been met.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Awoyemi, Oluwabunmi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Economic development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9179 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020145
- Description: The purpose of local economic development (LED) is to build up the economic capacity of a community, to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. It is a process by which public, business and nongovernmental sector partners work collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment generation (World Bank, 2006). In achieving the above definition of LED by the World Bank, the participation of community members in this process cannot be over emphasized. Women entrepreneurs are a driving force in today’s modern world. Most researches on women entrepreneurs in developed countries have showed that there are significant improvements in the economic growth of these countries as a result of the entrepreneurial activities of these women. However, there are limited statistics on the impact of women entrepreneurs in developing countries. The context of this research area is the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). This research makes a contribution to the existing body of knowledge about the promotion of LED through the participation of women entrepreneurs in NMBM. A group of women entrepreneurs in the metro completed a questionnaire. The aim of the questionnaires was to help identify their nature of business, years of being in business and most importantly, challenges each one of them encounter in carrying out their business operations and in developing their entrepreneurial skills. The research methods used in the study are the qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative method approach is used in the literature review. The literature review formed the conceptual basis against which the information gained from questionnaires were analysed. The quantitative method included the use of questionnaires. The data collected in this study revealed that the activities of women entrepreneurs contributed in their own little way to the growth and development of the metro. The study further reveals that finance is one of the major challenges of the women entrepreneurs as supported by the findings in the literature review. Therefore, if access to finance and support system are made readily available for women entrepreneurs, they would be able to make a significant impact in the development of the metro and nation at large. In conclusion, the researcher has been able to identify some of the challenges women entrepreneur face through the experience of the respondents in the study. The researcher has also been able to demonstrate how the aims and the objectives of the study have been met.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gender Policy: discussion document 27-29 March 2012
- Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)
- Authors: Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: book , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68759 , vital:29312
- Description: The Gender policy draws together existing COSATU resolutions into a coherent document, while further enriching these resolutions. This document aims to combine the vision and principles that we aspire towards, with practical relations in the working workplace and economy, in trade unions and in broader society. The issue of gender equality has been on our agenda since the formation of COSATU. However, we require a policy framework to guide our struggles to transform gender relations in the current period. It is therefore important that we reflect on progress in taking forward the vision and programmes adopted on several Congresses since COSATU inception. In broad terms, progress to realise these resolutions has been uneven and varies between affiliates. COSATU and its affiliates are guided by a vision of a society free of sexism, racism, class exploitation, and other forms of oppression. We envisage a future where women participate equally in the economy and society without barriers, and where women are emancipated from all forms of oppression in the household, the workplace and in broader society. We have a vision of a trade union movement as a home for women workers. This policy document was debated and adopted and the National Gender Conference (held on 5-7 July 2000). It is tabled at Congress for discussion and adoption. Once it has been adopted by the Congress all affiliates will have to give expression to this broad framework in their own policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: book , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68759 , vital:29312
- Description: The Gender policy draws together existing COSATU resolutions into a coherent document, while further enriching these resolutions. This document aims to combine the vision and principles that we aspire towards, with practical relations in the working workplace and economy, in trade unions and in broader society. The issue of gender equality has been on our agenda since the formation of COSATU. However, we require a policy framework to guide our struggles to transform gender relations in the current period. It is therefore important that we reflect on progress in taking forward the vision and programmes adopted on several Congresses since COSATU inception. In broad terms, progress to realise these resolutions has been uneven and varies between affiliates. COSATU and its affiliates are guided by a vision of a society free of sexism, racism, class exploitation, and other forms of oppression. We envisage a future where women participate equally in the economy and society without barriers, and where women are emancipated from all forms of oppression in the household, the workplace and in broader society. We have a vision of a trade union movement as a home for women workers. This policy document was debated and adopted and the National Gender Conference (held on 5-7 July 2000). It is tabled at Congress for discussion and adoption. Once it has been adopted by the Congress all affiliates will have to give expression to this broad framework in their own policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The role of women in develpmental local government: a case study of the Wells Estate area in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Sihlwayi, Nancy Nomadewuka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women in development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Women government executives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020111
- Description: The study investigates the role of women in development which is a favourite topic of the researcher. It investigates some aspects of the process of development involving women. It is obvious that the research was provoked by the legal framework directed at the transformation agenda that represents the democratic process of the country. The role of women, in other sectors, who were excluded from issues of community management, politics and government of the country, became obvious for the researcher due to their strategic role in society which is being undermined. The above view poses the challenge of power-sharing with men. This constituted a huge challenge that emanated from a stereotypical perspective and the fear of the unknown. Considerable pieces of legislation, policies, convention resolutions, conferences and publications became catalysts to intervene in the traditional challenge based on the societal construction. This, to the researcher, presents a clear historical anomaly where government has to address all the streamlining and implementation of policies. There should be sustainability through an Integrated Development Plan. The aim of the historical background of women, as envisaged by the study, is to highlight a contextualised role of women in the development of the transformation process and investigate numerous reasons that impede participation and the readiness of government in addressing these issues. Some questions that the researcher had to as relate to; What the impediments causing non-participation of women are; What elements contribute to the participation of women; What government strategies have unlocked non-participation of women; Why women’s contribution is critical to development; What strategies are deployed by government for women’s involvement? What the socio-economic benefits of participation by women are. It is the researcher’s opinion that the municipality should be complimented on its endeavours. However, they need to establish a strategic programme for empowering women to participate in development as a human rights issue.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Sihlwayi, Nancy Nomadewuka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women in development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Women government executives -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020111
- Description: The study investigates the role of women in development which is a favourite topic of the researcher. It investigates some aspects of the process of development involving women. It is obvious that the research was provoked by the legal framework directed at the transformation agenda that represents the democratic process of the country. The role of women, in other sectors, who were excluded from issues of community management, politics and government of the country, became obvious for the researcher due to their strategic role in society which is being undermined. The above view poses the challenge of power-sharing with men. This constituted a huge challenge that emanated from a stereotypical perspective and the fear of the unknown. Considerable pieces of legislation, policies, convention resolutions, conferences and publications became catalysts to intervene in the traditional challenge based on the societal construction. This, to the researcher, presents a clear historical anomaly where government has to address all the streamlining and implementation of policies. There should be sustainability through an Integrated Development Plan. The aim of the historical background of women, as envisaged by the study, is to highlight a contextualised role of women in the development of the transformation process and investigate numerous reasons that impede participation and the readiness of government in addressing these issues. Some questions that the researcher had to as relate to; What the impediments causing non-participation of women are; What elements contribute to the participation of women; What government strategies have unlocked non-participation of women; Why women’s contribution is critical to development; What strategies are deployed by government for women’s involvement? What the socio-economic benefits of participation by women are. It is the researcher’s opinion that the municipality should be complimented on its endeavours. However, they need to establish a strategic programme for empowering women to participate in development as a human rights issue.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gender mainstreaming in local governance: a case of O.R. Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Mongoato, Boiketlo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Women in development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32334 , vital:32024
- Description: The purpose of this study is to establish the extent to which the OR Tambo District Municipality is able to implement gender mainstreaming to eliminate gender bias in governance and service delivery in order to improve the lives of the women in the district and to develop the community. This study is specifically concerned with the effect of leadership and staff capacity on the implementation of gender mainstreaming. The study was aimed at improving how the local government approaches gender mainstreaming and shed light on how it can be used as an all-inclusive developmental strategy. The data for this study were collected through document analysis and purposively selected in-depth interviews. The subjects of the study were selected from strategic units within the municipality which were identified to be the key stakeholders in gender mainstreaming in terms of the institutional arrangements. The results illustrate that despite a commitment to gender mainstreaming in the OR Tambo District Municipality, the institution still faces many challenges in its implementation. These challenges are linked to the absence of an institutional gender mainstreaming policy, poor understanding of gender mainstreaming and sectoral institutional arrangements that hinder the process of implementation. The data confirmed that a lack of skilled human resources hinders the implementation of gender mainstreaming.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mongoato, Boiketlo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Women in development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32334 , vital:32024
- Description: The purpose of this study is to establish the extent to which the OR Tambo District Municipality is able to implement gender mainstreaming to eliminate gender bias in governance and service delivery in order to improve the lives of the women in the district and to develop the community. This study is specifically concerned with the effect of leadership and staff capacity on the implementation of gender mainstreaming. The study was aimed at improving how the local government approaches gender mainstreaming and shed light on how it can be used as an all-inclusive developmental strategy. The data for this study were collected through document analysis and purposively selected in-depth interviews. The subjects of the study were selected from strategic units within the municipality which were identified to be the key stakeholders in gender mainstreaming in terms of the institutional arrangements. The results illustrate that despite a commitment to gender mainstreaming in the OR Tambo District Municipality, the institution still faces many challenges in its implementation. These challenges are linked to the absence of an institutional gender mainstreaming policy, poor understanding of gender mainstreaming and sectoral institutional arrangements that hinder the process of implementation. The data confirmed that a lack of skilled human resources hinders the implementation of gender mainstreaming.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An analysis of barriers which affect women in leadership positions in Eastern Cape Municipalities : case study of Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Nyangiwe-Ndika, Welekazi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Women executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2049 , vital:27601
- Description: The primary concern of the study is to examine leadership challenges confronted by women leaders in Eastern Cape municipalities. International organisations has made a number commitments encouraging gender parity and eliminating imbalance against women in the past three decades, through international platforms. In the World Summit held in 2005, it was recommended that a Platform for Action (1995) and the resolutions of the Twenty Third special session of the General Assembly as a crucial baseline in attaining then internationally agreed development goals, as well as those contained in the Millennium Declaration. (www.ilo.org) In the above forums national decision makers worldwide were urged to apply strategies and programmes which would improve gender fairness, in leadership positions, giving women complete and comparable share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making as men. South Africa as a role player in the international space also joined the world in endorsing various programmes and strategies which seek to address gender parities and strive to eliminate women oppression especially in public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Nyangiwe-Ndika, Welekazi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Women executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2049 , vital:27601
- Description: The primary concern of the study is to examine leadership challenges confronted by women leaders in Eastern Cape municipalities. International organisations has made a number commitments encouraging gender parity and eliminating imbalance against women in the past three decades, through international platforms. In the World Summit held in 2005, it was recommended that a Platform for Action (1995) and the resolutions of the Twenty Third special session of the General Assembly as a crucial baseline in attaining then internationally agreed development goals, as well as those contained in the Millennium Declaration. (www.ilo.org) In the above forums national decision makers worldwide were urged to apply strategies and programmes which would improve gender fairness, in leadership positions, giving women complete and comparable share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making as men. South Africa as a role player in the international space also joined the world in endorsing various programmes and strategies which seek to address gender parities and strive to eliminate women oppression especially in public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Impact assessment of the local governmant reforms in Rwanda : the case study of Kigali City
- Authors: Apollo, Munanura
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Local government -- Rwanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8226 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/918 , Local government -- Rwanda
- Description: The local governance system has undergone positive changes since 1994 when the Government of National Unity took over power in Rwanda. The government has instituted democratic changes in the structure and functioning of local government through decentralisation. Since 2000 when the decentralisation policy was launched, Rwanda has evolved a model of local governance that has come to be emulated by its neighbouring countries. Since 2000, when the Local Government Act affected the decentralised structures of local government, some changes have occurred, challenges have emerged and constraints have been experienced in the implementation of the policy of decentralisation. Methodology used in the impact assessment study The researcher administered questionnaires, conducted interviews and documentary analysis. The assessment covered (3) three districts which were purposively selected on the basis of criteria that were considered sufficiently representative and based on the rationale of the study. Key findings of the study The study established that the restructuring exercise streamlined the structures of local governments, aligned mandates to the structures, and graded jobs in line with responsibilities. These reforms have improved the performance of the local governments. Despite notable improvements, the study established that there were still gaps in the local government system that needed to be addressed. These included: i. There is a big skills gap in most local governments. Some positions in local government are not filled due to inadequate resources. ii. Some local governments are finding it difficult to attract qualified and competent personnel to take up jobs at technical and managerial levels. iii. Local government lack attractive working environments. iv. There are limited career growth opportunities in local government service. xiv v. There is low local revenue. This has imposed limitations to accountability, supervision and monitoring of local government programmes. vi. Professional staff in local government is not adequately facilitated to do their work efficiently and effectively. vii. The existing capacity building programmes contribute marginally to career growth of individual staff members. viii. New reform programmes for improving service delivery such as results oriented management (ROM) and fiscal decentralisation strategy (FDS) have been rolled out but are not yet utilised in some of the local governments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Apollo, Munanura
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Local government -- Rwanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8226 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/918 , Local government -- Rwanda
- Description: The local governance system has undergone positive changes since 1994 when the Government of National Unity took over power in Rwanda. The government has instituted democratic changes in the structure and functioning of local government through decentralisation. Since 2000 when the decentralisation policy was launched, Rwanda has evolved a model of local governance that has come to be emulated by its neighbouring countries. Since 2000, when the Local Government Act affected the decentralised structures of local government, some changes have occurred, challenges have emerged and constraints have been experienced in the implementation of the policy of decentralisation. Methodology used in the impact assessment study The researcher administered questionnaires, conducted interviews and documentary analysis. The assessment covered (3) three districts which were purposively selected on the basis of criteria that were considered sufficiently representative and based on the rationale of the study. Key findings of the study The study established that the restructuring exercise streamlined the structures of local governments, aligned mandates to the structures, and graded jobs in line with responsibilities. These reforms have improved the performance of the local governments. Despite notable improvements, the study established that there were still gaps in the local government system that needed to be addressed. These included: i. There is a big skills gap in most local governments. Some positions in local government are not filled due to inadequate resources. ii. Some local governments are finding it difficult to attract qualified and competent personnel to take up jobs at technical and managerial levels. iii. Local government lack attractive working environments. iv. There are limited career growth opportunities in local government service. xiv v. There is low local revenue. This has imposed limitations to accountability, supervision and monitoring of local government programmes. vi. Professional staff in local government is not adequately facilitated to do their work efficiently and effectively. vii. The existing capacity building programmes contribute marginally to career growth of individual staff members. viii. New reform programmes for improving service delivery such as results oriented management (ROM) and fiscal decentralisation strategy (FDS) have been rolled out but are not yet utilised in some of the local governments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Towards a gender analysis of women and development: a case study of the gender division of labour in a rural black community in South Africa
- Authors: Middleton, Susan Clare
- Date: 1994
- Subjects: Rural women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Case studies , Women in development -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa , Sex role -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Thornhill -- Merino Walk
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003114 , Rural women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Case studies , Women in development -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa , Sex role -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Thornhill -- Merino Walk
- Description: This thesis examines the topic of the position of women in rural development. This topic has become the focus of extensive international debate at theoretical and policy levels, but for historical reasons remains relatively undeveloped in South Africa. After reviewing a number of contemporary approaches, the thesis argues in favour of the "Gender and Development" approach, and applies this to a case study of the gender division of labour in a rural black community in South Africa. Chapter one reviews the variants of the "Women in Development" (WID) approaches, as well as the claims of "Global Feminism". It is argued that, although Global Feminism began as a critique of WID approaches, it is in fact similar in many respects to the contemporary "empowerment" focus within the WID tradition. Although useful, these approaches are not sufficiently explicit in their theorizing of gender relations in the context of development. Chapter 2 sets out the key elements of the "Gender and Development" approach, which emphasises the complexity of the issue of women's interests, and warns against assuming a commonality of interests amongst all women. Instead, the GAD approach demands a detailed investigation of socially constructed gender relations in specific communities, with a special focus on the gender division of labour. For GAD theorists such analysis is a requirement of development planning which seeks to advance the position of women. Chapter 3 spells out the methodological implications of the GAD approach, and develops a specific research design, influenced by GAD as well as feminist methodology, for the investigation of the gender-specific needs of women in Merino Walk, a rural black community. Chapter 4 presents a brief overview of the general context of rural women in Southern Africa, and a specific history of the Merino Walk community. Chapter 5 presents the results of the research. In the context of this thesis, the results are presented essentially as an illustration of the application of the GAD principles to a specific South African example. The conclusion draws out some of the issues which emerge from the research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1994
- Authors: Middleton, Susan Clare
- Date: 1994
- Subjects: Rural women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Case studies , Women in development -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa , Sex role -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Thornhill -- Merino Walk
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003114 , Rural women -- Employment -- South Africa -- Case studies , Women in development -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa , Sex role -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Thornhill -- Merino Walk
- Description: This thesis examines the topic of the position of women in rural development. This topic has become the focus of extensive international debate at theoretical and policy levels, but for historical reasons remains relatively undeveloped in South Africa. After reviewing a number of contemporary approaches, the thesis argues in favour of the "Gender and Development" approach, and applies this to a case study of the gender division of labour in a rural black community in South Africa. Chapter one reviews the variants of the "Women in Development" (WID) approaches, as well as the claims of "Global Feminism". It is argued that, although Global Feminism began as a critique of WID approaches, it is in fact similar in many respects to the contemporary "empowerment" focus within the WID tradition. Although useful, these approaches are not sufficiently explicit in their theorizing of gender relations in the context of development. Chapter 2 sets out the key elements of the "Gender and Development" approach, which emphasises the complexity of the issue of women's interests, and warns against assuming a commonality of interests amongst all women. Instead, the GAD approach demands a detailed investigation of socially constructed gender relations in specific communities, with a special focus on the gender division of labour. For GAD theorists such analysis is a requirement of development planning which seeks to advance the position of women. Chapter 3 spells out the methodological implications of the GAD approach, and develops a specific research design, influenced by GAD as well as feminist methodology, for the investigation of the gender-specific needs of women in Merino Walk, a rural black community. Chapter 4 presents a brief overview of the general context of rural women in Southern Africa, and a specific history of the Merino Walk community. Chapter 5 presents the results of the research. In the context of this thesis, the results are presented essentially as an illustration of the application of the GAD principles to a specific South African example. The conclusion draws out some of the issues which emerge from the research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1994
Women's empowerment in the post-1994 Rwanda: the case study of Mayaga Region
- Authors: Hategekimana, Celestin
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Women in development -- Rwanda , Women -- Rwanda -- Social conditions , Women -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1314 , Women in development -- Rwanda , Women -- Rwanda -- Social conditions , Women -- Economic conditions
- Description: This research looks at the process of women’s empowerment in post- 1994 Rwanda, with special focus on twelve cooperatives working in Mayaga region and the way these cooperatives empower women, their households and the community at large. Traditional Rwandan society has been always bound by patriarchy which has not valued the reproductive roles of women as economically productive in their households and the society as a whole. On the one hand, this understanding was reversed in the post-1994 Rwanda by the commitment of the government to gender equality at the highest level of political leadership through progressive policies and legislation. On the other hand, in Mayaga region, cooperatives brought about socio-economic development and changed relationships of gender and power in a patriarchal post-conflict society. The findings from cooperatives in Mayaga region show that to prevent women from reaching their full potential is economic folly. If women are empowered, they can generate important development outcomes such as improved health, education, income levels and conflict resolution. The findings further indicate how women’s empowerment is determined by the livelihood strategies women adopt themselves to respond to their vulnerability, and by the ways in which they express their agency in making a living in a sustainable way, with the available community assets that they have access to (financial, social, human, natural and physical). This research highlights that the accessibility of the community assets used by women in Mayaga region and in Rwanda as a whole is also determined by policies, institutions and processes that are able to influence their livelihoods positively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Hategekimana, Celestin
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Women in development -- Rwanda , Women -- Rwanda -- Social conditions , Women -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9068 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1314 , Women in development -- Rwanda , Women -- Rwanda -- Social conditions , Women -- Economic conditions
- Description: This research looks at the process of women’s empowerment in post- 1994 Rwanda, with special focus on twelve cooperatives working in Mayaga region and the way these cooperatives empower women, their households and the community at large. Traditional Rwandan society has been always bound by patriarchy which has not valued the reproductive roles of women as economically productive in their households and the society as a whole. On the one hand, this understanding was reversed in the post-1994 Rwanda by the commitment of the government to gender equality at the highest level of political leadership through progressive policies and legislation. On the other hand, in Mayaga region, cooperatives brought about socio-economic development and changed relationships of gender and power in a patriarchal post-conflict society. The findings from cooperatives in Mayaga region show that to prevent women from reaching their full potential is economic folly. If women are empowered, they can generate important development outcomes such as improved health, education, income levels and conflict resolution. The findings further indicate how women’s empowerment is determined by the livelihood strategies women adopt themselves to respond to their vulnerability, and by the ways in which they express their agency in making a living in a sustainable way, with the available community assets that they have access to (financial, social, human, natural and physical). This research highlights that the accessibility of the community assets used by women in Mayaga region and in Rwanda as a whole is also determined by policies, institutions and processes that are able to influence their livelihoods positively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Patriarchy and the participation of women in Zimbabwean national politics: a study of selected women Politicians in Matabeleland Region
- Authors: Manyevere, Sithabile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women politicians Women -- Political activity -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17506 , vital:41082
- Description: The research sought to analyse how patriarchal perceptions have affected women in Zimbabwean national politics with specific focus on women politicians in Matabeleland region. The researcher observed that women politicians in this region seem to face multiple oppressions and yet seem to have been excluded in previous studies. The mixed method approach was adopted for the research. Questionnaires were used for the quantitative method, while key informant interviews and focus group discussions were utilised for the qualitative method. Findings from the survey revealed stereotypical perceptions such as that men are better leaders than women, women are not capable of holding decision making positions and the perception that politics is not safe for women. The findings from the key informants indicate that women politicians in Matabeleland face quite a number of challenges emanating from these patriarchal perceptions. The challenges include violence, humiliation and cultural stigmatization. Although women have attempted to resist patriarchy, it seems that the resistance has not been enough to eliminate the patriarchal mentality and the oppressions that accompany it. The research adopts a combination of feminist and intersectionality theory as a framework for analysis of the problem under investigation. The research potentially contributes to academic discourse by advancing literature on the multi-faceted aspects of patriarchy. The study recommends psychological and financial empowerment of women, electoral reforms and criminalization of offenders. The implementation of proper reforms and corrective measures envisage the long-awaited new dawn among women whom since time memorial, have been suppressed by deep-seated societal and patriarchal beliefs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Manyevere, Sithabile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women politicians Women -- Political activity -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17506 , vital:41082
- Description: The research sought to analyse how patriarchal perceptions have affected women in Zimbabwean national politics with specific focus on women politicians in Matabeleland region. The researcher observed that women politicians in this region seem to face multiple oppressions and yet seem to have been excluded in previous studies. The mixed method approach was adopted for the research. Questionnaires were used for the quantitative method, while key informant interviews and focus group discussions were utilised for the qualitative method. Findings from the survey revealed stereotypical perceptions such as that men are better leaders than women, women are not capable of holding decision making positions and the perception that politics is not safe for women. The findings from the key informants indicate that women politicians in Matabeleland face quite a number of challenges emanating from these patriarchal perceptions. The challenges include violence, humiliation and cultural stigmatization. Although women have attempted to resist patriarchy, it seems that the resistance has not been enough to eliminate the patriarchal mentality and the oppressions that accompany it. The research adopts a combination of feminist and intersectionality theory as a framework for analysis of the problem under investigation. The research potentially contributes to academic discourse by advancing literature on the multi-faceted aspects of patriarchy. The study recommends psychological and financial empowerment of women, electoral reforms and criminalization of offenders. The implementation of proper reforms and corrective measures envisage the long-awaited new dawn among women whom since time memorial, have been suppressed by deep-seated societal and patriarchal beliefs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Single women's land ownership arrangements and land utilisation: Hopewell Farm in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Samati, Rugare
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women and land use planning -- Zimbabwe -- Chegutu Women farmers -- Zimbabwe -- Chegutu
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21141 , vital:29450
- Description: This study investigates the land ownership patterns of Hopewell Farm in Chegutu, Zimbabwe. The ownership patterns demonstrate an unequal distribution of land that places women, particularly single women, at a disadvantage when compared to land ownership by their male counterparts. Land distribution patterns, ownership and control of resources, do not accurately reflect the investment that is made into the land through farming activities carried out by women. It is, therefore, questionable, as to whether women are being granted the opportunity to own land or being provided with adequate information needed to successfully facilitate land acquisition. For the purposes of answering this question, rich, qualitative data was collected by means of focus groups and in-depth interviews with community members in Hopewell Farm. The study found that most single women do not own land in Hopewell Farm; out of a total of 114 farms, only eighteen are owned by women and fourteen of these women inherited the land from their late spouses. This ownership pattern is a consequence of low levels of knowledge amongst women about land acquisition, patriarchal structures that inhibit their development, as well as weak policy formulation and implementation by the state. Based on these findings, the study recommends special attention be paid to single women through the establishment of a lands office that specifically caters for the facilitation of land allocation to women. This would ensure that single women start to utilise a greater portion of the forty percent land allocation lobbied for women by the Women Land and Lobby Group (WLLG). It is also important to implement awareness programs that allow women to share their views around issues of land ownership and control. Thus, the research concludes, that the unequal land distribution that remains in favour of men in Hopewell Farm, must be addressed and treated as a matter of urgency.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Samati, Rugare
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women and land use planning -- Zimbabwe -- Chegutu Women farmers -- Zimbabwe -- Chegutu
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21141 , vital:29450
- Description: This study investigates the land ownership patterns of Hopewell Farm in Chegutu, Zimbabwe. The ownership patterns demonstrate an unequal distribution of land that places women, particularly single women, at a disadvantage when compared to land ownership by their male counterparts. Land distribution patterns, ownership and control of resources, do not accurately reflect the investment that is made into the land through farming activities carried out by women. It is, therefore, questionable, as to whether women are being granted the opportunity to own land or being provided with adequate information needed to successfully facilitate land acquisition. For the purposes of answering this question, rich, qualitative data was collected by means of focus groups and in-depth interviews with community members in Hopewell Farm. The study found that most single women do not own land in Hopewell Farm; out of a total of 114 farms, only eighteen are owned by women and fourteen of these women inherited the land from their late spouses. This ownership pattern is a consequence of low levels of knowledge amongst women about land acquisition, patriarchal structures that inhibit their development, as well as weak policy formulation and implementation by the state. Based on these findings, the study recommends special attention be paid to single women through the establishment of a lands office that specifically caters for the facilitation of land allocation to women. This would ensure that single women start to utilise a greater portion of the forty percent land allocation lobbied for women by the Women Land and Lobby Group (WLLG). It is also important to implement awareness programs that allow women to share their views around issues of land ownership and control. Thus, the research concludes, that the unequal land distribution that remains in favour of men in Hopewell Farm, must be addressed and treated as a matter of urgency.
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- Date Issued: 2017