DRIVERS OF GENDER DISPARITY AMONG BENEFICIARIES OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN CAMEROON

Authors: Babit Gilbert Foncham & Balgah Roland Azibo

ABSTRACT

In spite of visible efforts, gender disparity still persists in development projects worldwide, with negative impacts on women’s participation, project outcomes, and sustainability. The growing literature on determinants of gender disparity in development projects is driven mainly by an individual projects agenda that does not generate knowledge of relevance for broad-based policy making at regional, national or international levels. This study explores gender disparity determinants among beneficiaries of development projects in Mezam division in the North West region of Cameroon. Primary data was collected from 450 beneficiaries of six randomly selected development projects in Mezam division, using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse socio-demographic characteristics of the sample, and a weighted linear regression model to identify determinants of gender disparity. 55% (250 individuals) were male, while 45% (200 individuals) were female. Statistically significant gender disparity was observed between respondents across various socio-economic variables, particularly, age, access to land, access to income, employment status, household wealth, access to credit, access to technology, and access to healthcare. The regression model identified household size, land ownership, financial status, access to information and communication technology (ICT), and exposure to crises as key drivers of gender disparity. Based on these findings, the study emphasizes the importance of gender mainstreaming as a key approach to addressing gender disparity among development projects in Cameroon. This can pave the way for promoting gender equality and inclusivity, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of development outcomes for men and women project beneficiaries in Cameroon.

Keywords:  Gender disparity, Drivers, beneficiaries, development projects

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