KENEA, R.B. (2019) ‘Impacts of gender differences on women’s participation in community work in Abbay Chomman woreda, Ethiopia’, International Journal of Management Studies and Social Science Research , 13(6), pp. 86–118.
The paper examined the disparity of participation by women in community work and the impacts of gender differences on women’s participation in the Abbay chomman woreda, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches with a total population of 79 samples using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Techniques like tabulation, percentages, and numerical figures were used to analyse the quantitative data, and narration and comparative discussion were used to analyse the qualitatively collected data.
The results showed that inadequate time, restricted access to education and skill development, a lack of technological advancement, religious bias and the unequal representation of women in the development of laws are the main barriers preventing women from taking part in various development activities. The study also indicated that factors like property rights, inheritance, divorce, social and cultural norms related to child care, the burden of unpaid work, the low value placed on girls’ education, limited access to financial and physical assets, market information, fewer social networks and business connections, and lower bargaining power in the workforce restrict women’s economic participation and productivity.
According to local custom, only women are allowed to do domestic duties, and men should engage in activities related to farming. However, in reality, each performs a “third category” of work like agricultural tasks, such as harrowing, weeding, field compaction and harvesting, while other work is only done by one gender. The findings of this study suggest that religious creeds or ideologies, community customs, laws, inherent social and structural constraints, socio-cultural values, myth, and the process of socialisation of boys and girls play a significant role in perpetuating this notion about female subordination and the division of masculine and feminine roles.
The paper suggested that governments must create laws that support and encourage women to work in the public sector and address structural barriers that prevent women from participating in community work. These are the main drivers that improve women’s contribution to economic development. Expanding access to equity, the availability of services, training, and an engaging community will empower all women.