Gender Gaps in Decision Making Power in Households: Case of Improved Bee Keeping among The Maasai Community in Trans Mara, Narok County, Kenya
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Date
2019
Authors
Miriti, Lydiah
Ngare, Wamue
Casper, Masiga
Maina, Immaculate
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
IPRJB
Abstract
Purpose: This study sought to explore gender gaps in decision making power in improved bee
keeping households among the Maasai community in Trans Mara, Narok County, Kenya.
Methodology: Random and snowball sampling was used. A of 110 households were interviewed
while 36 participants were selected for focus group discussions (FGDs) and 16 key informant
(KII) were also interviewed. A FGD guide was used to collect information in group discussions
while interview schedules were used for KIIs. Data collected was analysed using SPSS and excel
spreadsheet.
Findings: Findings indicate a higher consensus among group members’ households compared to
non-members. It can be argued that trainings in improved bee keeping have enhanced joint
decisions, a factor that reduces gender gaps. However, in both categories (group members nonmembers), men have a higher decision making power in purchase and sale of all household
assets while women’s is minimal or none at all. Women have input in decisions concerning
poultry. Further, men have input to most or all decisions pertaining income generated from
productive activities, including bee products.
Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study suggests awareness initiatives
and household empowerment targeting power imbalances and cultural stereotypes, especially
those that deter socio-economic development. In such forums, trainings and discussions should
be promoted on gender roles, unequal workload, rights and responsibilities especially importance
of individual and joint decision making power. This will address both household and community
inequalities, and minimize the gender gap for enhanced participation and access to benefits in
agricultural value chains.
Description
A Research Article in the International Journal of Gender Studies
Keywords
Improved Bee Keeping, Participation, Gender, Imenti South District, Kenya.
Citation
2019: Miriti L.; G. Wamue-Ngare; C. Masiga and I. Maina (2019) “Gender Gaps in Decision Making Power in Households: Case of Improved Bee Keeping Among the Maasai Community in Trans Mara, Narok County, Kenya” in the International Journal of Gender Studies ISSN 2520-4025 (Online) Vol.4, Issue 1. No.2, pp 19- 36.