Gender and Water Management Practices in Ghana

Abstract

This article discusses gender and water management practices in the Asante Akim South District in the Ashanti region of Ghana. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, eight communities from four out of six towns operating under the Phase III of the Rural Water Supply Project (RWSP) were selected. The study reveals a difference in the level of participation of men and women in decision-making and planning in RWSP. Fear, criticisms from other women, domestic and economic activities were major challenges to women’s participation in RWSP. The study concludes that, though women showed high participation in the management of RWSP, their participation in decision-making and planning was low. The study demonstrates that since gender plays a vital role in water management, it is crucial that men and women be educated on the importance of women’s active role in decision-making and planning in RWSP, to enhance its effective management.

Key words: gender, rural, water supply, water management, participation, community