CHALLENGES FACING MEN AND WOMEN IN ACCESSING WATER RESOURCES IN KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA
CHALLENGES FACING MEN AND WOMEN IN ACCESSING WATER RESOURCES IN KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA
Wakhungu Gladys Nafula - Master’s Student, Department of Department of Sociology, Gender and development studies, Kenya University, Kenya
Dr. Casper Masiga - Lecturer, Department of Sociology, Gender and Development Studies, Kenyatta University, Kenya
ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was to analyze the determinants of Gender responsive gender management of water projects and resources in Kajiado West Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya. The objectives were; to determine the constraints faced by men and women in access to water resources in Kajiado West Sub County and to identify the best strategies that can help the inclusivity of genders in the management of water resources and projects in Kajiado West Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya. The study was based on the Harvard Analytical Framework which underscores the inclusion of both genders in development projects as beneficiaries and actors. The study used a descriptive survey research design. This design was adopted because it describes things as they are without manipulation and facilitates data collection. The target population was all the residents of Kajiado West Sub County. The sample was made of 47 respondents from 5 villages. The study used two research instruments for data collection namely Focus Group Discussion (FGD) guides and interview schedule. Validity of the research instruments was determined by the researcher in collaboration with the supervisor to make sure that the instruments reflect the objectives. Instrument reliability was determined using the split-half method. The study gathered qualitative and quantitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics for example percentages, means and standard deviations. The qualitative data was analyzed according to themes and patterns formed. The findings revealed that cultural customs and illiteracy in water resource management are among the major constraints facing men and women in the management of water resources. In addition, poor access to water sources was also cited as another problem men and women face. The study recommended that gender training of a very practical kind is needed focusing on the roles and responsibilities of project managers and their partner organizations, backed up with ongoing support through networks and exchanges.
