THE OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF WOMEN IN DECISION MAKING PROCESS: THE CASE OF AREKA TOWN ADMINISTRATION, WOLAITA ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Women’s political participation and decision making process has been recognized internationally as an important measure for the status of women in any country. Hence, in recent years, women’s participation in politics and decision making has received significant attention across the world. However, women remain seriously underrepresented in decision making position. This study was intended to assess the Challenges and Opportunities of women in political decision making process in Areka Administrative Town. The study employed mixed research approaches and descriptive research design. Sample size and sampling techniques were appropriately selected to fit with the research objectives. About 132 participants were included in questionnaire using probability and purposive sampling techniques. 12 key informants were participated for interview. 7 members were selected for focus group discussion from different sectors those were from town women office and peace and security institution. The major data collection instruments employed for the purpose of this research are primary data source such as observation, interview, questionnaires, and focus group discussion whereas document analysis was gathered from secondary sources. The collected data was analyzed and interpreted using descriptive statistics. The findings from the study revealed that the current status of women practice in decision making process is challenged by different factors which come from different dimensions. Social attitude, women commitment, culture of men domination, and practice of government policy, in efficient legal frame work and lack of functional and independent institution were listed under the major problems. The finding indicated that there were a few women only politically appointed and represented in top government sectors and they are simply following or attending decision making process. As the study shown women lived under the control of men decision makers. Based on the finding some recommendations were suggested. To overcome the challenges of women in political decision making process and to promote those to be sound decision maker it is better for the government to promote decentralization that is conducive to women’s equal participation in decision making process at the local level and empower local bodies to implement effective gender mainstreaming program