GENDER DIMENSSION OF RURAL LAND USE RIGHTS: THE CASE OF DEMBA GOFA WOREDA, SNNPR ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the underlying socio-cultural factors, which hinder gender equity in land use right in Demba Gofa Woreda, Ethiopia. For this study, mixed research approach was employed. Besides, multistage sampling technique was also used to select Demba Gofa Woreda and its four sample kebeles. Thus, for this study a total of 320 household heads were proportionally selected as sample size using systematic sampling technique from four rural Kebele’. Data were collected through household survey questioners, structured interview, document analysis, focus group discussion, observation and from CSA document. The collected data were analyzed through both descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 20.1. Furthermore, qualitative data were also elaborated using narration. Finding of the study showed that, 41% and 27.1% of women in the study area acquires farm land through means of inheritance and marriage respectively. Practically land registration and certification was not well organized and implemented to farmer’s ownership security. Legally women have equal right to own, administer and control property under the existing laws. By principle they have the right to access the rural land free of charge and control it equally with men. However, practically, they have not equal right to control, to make decision, to transfer, and to cultivate without their husbands consensus. The study identified, the traditional attitude of the community towards women’s land use right, lack of women participation in land decision making issues, lack of adequate information, and knowledge on rural land laws and proclamation as main challenge to women’s rural land use right .Thus, adequate awareness creation and empowering women’s were recommended to raise women’s understanding on rural land laws and proclamations in the study area. The legal gaps could be filled in modifying the relevant law