GENDER AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE SOUTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON (1990-2009)

GENDER AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE SOUTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON (1990-2009)

Abstract:

Despite the role women play in the well-being of a country, women in the South West Region of Cameroon are seen to be marginalized and largely excluded from the political processes including decision making processes in the region. The women of the South West region of Cameroon are seen to command limited economic resources and see their place in the home. This study examines the impact of socio-economic status as defined by income and educational levels on women‘s political participation in the South West region of Cameroon. It argues that although there are constitutional provisions and public policies which guarantee women‘s rights in the country, socio-economic factors constitute barriers to women‘s participation in politics in the south west region of Cameroon. The study is anchored on the premise of liberal feminism as the theory. The theory posits that all people are created equal and that culture and the attitude of individuals are responsible for promoting gender conflict. Its relevance to the study is reflected in its relative importance accorded to work and education as prerequisites for sustainable development. Data were derived from both secondary and primary sources which included existing documents on the subject matter, text books, journal publications and questionnaires respectively. In terms of analysis, qualitative data were analyzed descriptively while simple statistical tools were adopted in analyzing quantitative data (questionnaires). The study found out that there exists a gender gap in political participation in the region. It also found out that political participation is determined to a large extent by socioeconomic status in the south west region of Cameroon. The study emphasizes that the onus of redefining public and private spaces to ensure gender balance cannot be on women alone. It suggests collective efforts from all in the society in order to facilitate effective participation of women in politics. It further suggests that the need for the facilitation of the active engagement of the female population in economic activities in various fields of endeavor is imperative. This can be done by ensuring access to business capital, extension and other business and development services for female entrepreneurs by deliberate government policy and programs. This will boost women‘s socio-economic empowerment.

GENDER AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE SOUTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON (1990-2009)