Determinants of Women’s Participation in the Industrial Economy in Tanzania: A Case of Mwanza Region

Abstract

This paper presents findings of an empirical study carried out to identify barriers and enablers of women’s participation in the industrial economy in Tanzania, using a case study of Mwanza region, using a cross-sectional design to examine determinants of women participation in the industrial economy in Tanzania. Particularly, a mixed approach involving both qualitative and quantitative data was adopted. Generally, the study reached out to a total of 228 women and 21 Key Informants drawn from 12 sampled wards from two districts of Nyamagana and Sengerema. Data collection involved mainly two approaches: primary data collection through survey, Key Informant Interviews (semi-structured), informal interviews, Focus Group Discussions and secondary data through desk review. The study revealed that limited access to financing information, lack of formal education, lack of entrepreneurial knowledge/skills and lack of marketing information are major barriers for women wishing to participate in the industrial economy. Moreover, membership in CBO and self-confidence are the main enablers of women participation in the industrial economy. Therefore, sensitization programs and establishment of Business Development Services (BDS) at ward levels would help women to access skills and services which will empower them to actively and successfully participate in the industrial economy.