Gender equality in land ownership as a strategy for poverty reduction in Tanzania: A case of Ilala Municipal in Dar Es Salaam City.

Abstract

Gender equality and the empowerment of women are widely recognized as key dimensions of human progress. Many women are still discriminated upon and denied their rights to land. The aim of this study was to identify causes for gender inequality in land ownership and also to examine the women’s accessibility to land resource towards poverty reduction in Tanzania. A sample of 50 respondents was drawn to gather field information relevant to this study through interviews, questionnaires and observations. However, literature materials were used in order to accomplish this research. This research revealed that, gender inequality in land ownership is mainly caused by traditions and customs which promote and perpetuate patriarchal system. Also it was found that, women who owned land were able to run agricultural activities, build houses and rent to other people thereby provide with them a means to sustain their livelihood. It is recommended that, the Government should continue with its efforts of educating and encouraging women to attend different trainings whereby they can be able to understand different rights like land ownership right. Through attending trainings, women will also have the ability to understand their rights. It should also undertake various reforms to laws, particularly customary law in order to eliminate gender inequality in land rights. Men should be educated and well sensitized on gender equality in land ownership. The reason is that equality in land ownership will enable women to be independent and change the current situation whereby women depend on men. Hence this will be the solution to poverty reduction.

Key words: Gender, Gender equality, Access to, Land ownership, Patriarchal system, Vulnerability