Engaging Women in the Extractive Sector: A Review of Tanzania’s Policy and Legislative Framework

Abstract

This article provides an in-depth analysis on the extent to which women are involved in the decision-making chain in the extractive  sector (both informal and formal) in Tanzania. Its specific focus is on the legal and policy framework that has been put in place, taking into account both the traditional and non-traditional extractive sectors. Regarding the traditional sector, attention has been placed on
oil, gas, and minerals. The non-traditional extractive sector, on the other hand, covers natural resources other than oil, gas, and  minerals. Its thesis is guided by three main assessment criteria to benchmark women’s participation or/and engagement in the extractive sector in the traditional and non-traditional extractive industries: law, policy, and claimed space. The article reveals that the legal and policy framework governing the extractive sector does not guarantee effective participation of women. The article recommends that the legal and policy framework be amended to address this anomaly.

Keywords: law and extractives, role of women, Tanzania