Women’s Participation in Leadership Positions in Tanzanian Local Government Authorities: Structural, Institutional, and Socio-Cultural Determinants in Singida Region

Abstract

This study examined factors influencing women’s participation in leadership positions within Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Singida Region, Tanzania. Guided by Liberal Feminist Theory and Institutional Theory, the study employed a qualitative case study design to explore structural, institutional, and socio-cultural determinants shaping women’s engagement in leadership. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 84 purposively selected participants from 18 wards in Singida District Council and Singida Municipal Council, and were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings revealed that women’s participation is constrained by interconnected personal, institutional and socio-cultural factors.Personal barriers included limited financial resources, domestic responsibilities, low self-confidence and internalised gender stereotypes. Institutional challenges comprised weak implementation of gender-responsive policies, inadequate leadership development and mentorship programmes and gender-insensitive recruitment and electoral processes. Socio-cultural barriers included patriarchal norms, early marriage and unequal educational opportunities for girls, which undermined women’s visibility and acceptance as leaders. The study concludes that women remain underrepresented in leadership, particularly at the grassroots level. It recommends strengthening gender equality policies, expanding leadership training and mentorship, enhancing institutional support mechanisms and promoting community initiatives that challenge discriminatory gender norms and advance inclusive local governance.