ASSESSMENT OF WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN EGOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

This study assessed women participation in community development project in Egor Local Government area of Edo State. The purpose of the study was to examine if women actively participate in community development projects in Egor Local Government Area. The study sought to examine the current situation of women’s participation in community development in Egor local government area. Five Research questions were raised to guide the study. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study in order to collect data for the study. The research instrument employed was a questionnaire titled “an assessment of women’s participation in community development projects (AWPCDP)”. A total of one hundred and fifty women from four different communities in Egor local government area, Edo state, was adopted as sample for the study. Based on the obtained and analysed data the followings are the salient findings; Women are interested in participating in community development project but are not actively involved. Women have a positive perception that influence their participation in community development project in Egor local government. Women’s participation in community development has improved access to health services, water and their income generating opportunities. There are factors that influence women participation in community development project which include training and capacity building as well cultural and social norms. Also, Women are confronted with challenges that highly influence their participation in community development project like lack of access to education and training, domestic responsibility and gender discrimination. Based on these findings, it was recommended that: there should be equal representation and leadership roles for women in all community development committees, councils, and decision-making bodies. Set gender quotas or targets if necessary to achieve adequate women’s representation. This will provide opportunities for women to be fully involved in community development project without fear of being discriminated.