Gender mainstreaming strategies in upgrading of rural projects in Karatina, Nyeri county, Kenya

Abstract

Gender mainstreaming is a concept that addresses the well being of women and men. It is a strategy that is central to the interests of the whole community and a concept that has received much attention in literature on project management. This paper aimed at examining the application of gender mainstreaming strategies in upgrading of Karatina market, a rural-based project in Nyeri County in Kenya. It sought to assess how gender policies were adhered to in the project. The study used descriptive survey research design and document desk review of relevant research literature. Questionnaires and interview guides were used as instruments of data collection. The resultant data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods'. Descriptive data analysis was done using measures of central tendencies. For qualitative data, content analysis was applied. Findings indicated that the plan for the project was designed in a way that met women s and men \' needs'. 58% of the respondents maintained that both men and women were included in decision-making organs engaged in project development. However. findings revealed reluctance by women to undertake construction work. 58% of top management team maintained that some regulations in the gender mainstreaming guidelines were difficuIt to comply with. The article argues for gender mainstreaming strategies such as application of the one third rule of affirmative action in favour of women during recruitment of project team members and gender-responsive consultation with project beneficiaries. This paper concludes that gender mainstreaming strategies should be integrated in all phases of the project cycle.