Gender representation in the public sector in Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

This study was designed to explore and evaluate the gender balance in the public sector in Somalia. The study examined challenges facing gender representation in the public sector. This research was guided by the feminist theory. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted for the study. Data were collected through a survey, structured qualitative interviews and observation guide were used.

The study established that there is a major gender imbalance in the public sector in Somalia. Women in the country and those in the Diaspora have been found to be disadvantaged. The main causes of gender imbalance were found to be culture, tradition and politics. The other factor is lack of policies to reduce gender imbalance in the public sector. Following the findings of the study, various recommendations were made for the purpose of improving the status of gender representation in the public sector in Somalia.

The recommendations include urging the government to entrench affirmative action for women quota of between 30% and 50%, both in the new constitution and in the formal policies. The new Constitution should contain clauses that are against negative and regressive cultures that undermine women's active participation in the development ofthe country. In the Constitution there should be provision for protection of women during the election period in order to prevent the possible obstacles that could hinder women's participation in the process of the election. Of equal importance is further research in other gender issues in Somalia.