Abstract:
In Africa women play an instrumental role in the society. Available studies indicate that
70% of the work in society is undertaken by women. In comparing the lives of the
inhabitants of the poorest communities across the Developing World, Kenya not an
exception, it can be observed that virtually everywhere, women are the most affected.
They are faced with the challenge of being poor and malnourished, lack proper
reproductive health services, clean water, sanitation and other benefits. Furthermore, the
glaring gender disparities in major decision-making institutions, illiteracy and lack of
property ownership all contribute to their inability to participate effectively in
Development. The main objective of the study was to assess the challenges of rural
women in local development in Kenya using Lugari District as a case study. The specific
objectives were: To identify the activities involved by women, to examine the benefits
accruing from their participation in local development activities and to explore
appropriate ways of enhancing their participation in local development activities. This
study was based on Feminist Theory propagated by a civil right movement which sprung
in 19th century in United States to fight for the rights of women. The Research design
used was case study. From a target population of 200 using cluster and Simple random
Sampling, a sample size of 50 was determined. Data collection techniques employed
were questionnaires, Documentary analysis and direct observation. Data analysis was
done by use of Descriptive statistics. Results obtained were presented by use of pie charts, bar graphs and frequency tables. The findings revealed the following: women still faced challenges which included, low education levels, inaccessibility to finance and lack of landownership. In light of the findings it was recommended that a clear policy should be enacted to ensure equal access of land among men and women, secondly, there is need to offer bursaries to needy and intelligent girls, improving agriculture and offer subsidies and finally the need to enhance female representation in leadership positions
