Abstract:
Despite numerous initiatives being taken by governments, non-governmental and qausigovernmental
organisations and even the private sector to try and mainstream women in
development, there is still a lot to be done in terms of increasing the number of women
participating in development. Some scholars have blamed women themselves for not taking
initiatives to participate in development. Some are putting the blame on the methodological
problems associated with the interventions and some are saying the substantive issues of the
initiatives do not have women issues of development. The study sought to find out how
women are taking advantage of these initiatives to participate in development. The study
utilised both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, where in-depth interviews and focus
group discussions were the main qualitative instruments and questionnaire was the main
quantitative method of collecting data. The study identified some initiatives being taken by
women to try and participate in development and most notable improvement was seen in
economic integration. There was also some progress in improving their educational
qualifications, but very minimal improvement in political participation. There is need
however to come up with interventions that support these initiatives so that women’s
livelihoods are supported and sustainable development is enhanced. There is also need to
come up with a holistic approach where these initiative start at grassroots trying to start with
programmes that benefit the girl-child so that they develop this entrepreneurship culture
which can help them participate in development. Special programmes need to be tailored so
that they benefit rural women.
