The Effects of Gender Inequality on the Socio-Economic Development of Households: A Case Study of Selected Households in Butenga Sub-County, Masaka District.

Abstract

OJIAMBO GEORGE (2007-M092-30146) The Effects of Gender Inequality on the Socio-Economic Development of Households: A Case Study of Selected Households in Butenga Sub-County, Masaka District. According to Boserup (1970) about half the population of the world is female and one would, therefore, expect that half the benefits of development would go to women and half to men but the reality is different. Men and women play different roles which are socially constructed and even the benefits accruing to their roles are socially constructed. In effect, men hold a higher standing than women in the society, therefore, enjoying more rights and freedoms than their counterparts. This study was, therefore, aimed at examining the effect of gender inequality on the socio-economic development of the household. How gender inequality manifests in the household as well as the challenges faced in attempts to achieve gender equality were also given attention in this study. The study was based in Butenga sub-county in Masaka district where the researcher selected and interviewed parents in the selected households. Community leaders like the Local Council 1 chairpersons, Women council 1 Chairpersons, probation officer and the police officer in charge of community policing were also interviewed. Questionnaire and direct interview methods were used to collect data. Issues about which the researcher wanted more information because of their relevance to the study were further discussed in focus group discussions. Thereafter, the data were analysed using percentages and cumulative frequencies that guided the construction of tables, graphs and pie charts. The study found out that in Butenga sub-county, gender inequality is still entrenched and retards the social and economic development of households. However, to some people, it has no negative effects on the household instead it is useful in fostering social order in which men and women play different but complementary roles vital for the survival of the society. Key Words: Gender Inequality, Socio-Economic Development, Households, Masaka District.