A Gender Assessment of Water Resource Management in Kisamis,kajiado County

Abstract

Gender sensitive approaches have been emphasized in policy and development programs. The approach of gender balance has been instrumental in the enhancement and application of gender sensitive approaches in water resources management for integrated management. This study, a gender assessment of water resources management in Kisamis, Kajiado county, sought to establish the roles of men and women in water resource management, the water needs of men and women and the constrains faced. Using a qualitative methodology, the study was guided by the Carol Moser Framework in the assessment. The findings show that the water needs for men and women range from domestic to livestock use. However, despite the role of women in supplying water for household use and knowledge on location of water resources, they have limited participation in the management of the resources. This is because of the cultural norms that view women as not suitable for management of water resources and men as sole decision makers. Other challenges faced include limited knowledge on water resources management among men and women, and general poor access to sustainable water resources. The study concludes that gender agenda is important in integrated water resources management and recommends a gender policy and inclusion of women in water resources management.