Sexism in Politics: A Women Specific Barriers Hindering Women Representation in Local Government Electoral Seats in Tanzania, a Case of Dar Es Salaam City Council

Abstract

The study examined women-specific barriers hindering women’s representation in Local government electoral seats in Tanzania focusing on Dar es Salaam City Council (DCC). The study involved a sample of 174 respondents selected using strata-random and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics through SPSS and results presented in frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data were analyzed using themes and results are presented through narration and using quotes from interviews and FGDs. The findings show that the women-specific barriers which include; inadequate awareness, lack of time and readiness for political activities, insufficient education. The study concluded that women specific barriers have become prevalent in the path to women progress to political and representation positions. The barriers have brought negative repercussion to both women and the society as a whole in various social and economic arenas. Furthermore, the study suggests potential areas for future gender focused research studies on social, economic, and cultural barriers costarring effective women representation in local government electoral seats.