The Effects of Corruption on Women's Participation in Development in Dodoma City

Abstract

This study delved into the repercussions of corruption on women's involvement within the development sectors of Tanzania, with a specific focus on Dodoma City. The research was conducted across three distinct wards: Chang’ombe, Kilimani, and Mtumba. Guided by the tenets of liberal feminist theory, which advocates for the integration of women into developmental structures through educational and political empowerment, this study adopted a qualitative research approach and employed a case study design as its methodological framework. Data were amassed through interviews, questionnaires, and documentary reviews, involving a total of 67 respondents, deemed an appropriate sample size. The data underwent thematic analysis for processing. The findings unveiled that women's vulnerability to corruption exceeds that of men, primarily due to entrenched gender inequality and stereotypes. Women frequently experience corruption in the form of monetary solicitations and sexual coercion. Furthermore, the study illuminated the multifaceted ways in which corruption impinges on women's experiences, spanning their participation in politics, the pursuit of employment opportunities, access to fundamental services and credit, and protection of their rights. Ultimately, the study concluded that corruption hinders women from seamlessly accessing a range of services, thereby marginalizing their engagement across diverse developmental sectors. The study recommends that the government formulate strategic policies to counteract corruption, bolster gender equality, and empower women as a means of ameliorating the adverse consequences of corruption on women.