Women’s Participation in Water Sanitation and Hygiene Projects and Associated Factors: A Case of Misungwi and Magu Districts

Women’s participation in WASH projects in Misungwi and Magu districts of Tanzania remains limited despite the critical role they play in promoting public health and sustainable development. This qualitative study, conducted through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and a participation scorecard, found that women’s involvement is largely passive and heavily shaped by socio-cultural and structural barriers. Deeply rooted patriarchal norms, unequal household power relations, and the need for male permission restrict women’s ability to take part in decision-making, confining them primarily to implementation rather than leadership roles. These constraints are compounded by socio-economic challenges such as low income, limited education, and heavy domestic responsibilities. The study concludes that addressing these barriers requires integrated strategies that promote women’s economic empowerment, transform restrictive gender norms, and strengthen their authority in household and community decision-making to achieve equitable and sustainable WASH outcomes.