Gender Mainstreaming Stereotypes and Socio-Economic Development of Cyeza Sector in Rwanda

Abstract: This research project highlighted the fact that there were still gender mainstreaming stereotypes in our society that impede socioeconomic development, despite many efforts that have been made so far. The primary goal is to analyze how gender mainstreaming stereotypes influence socioeconomic advancement, with an emphasis on negative socio-cultural norms, religious beliefs, and leadership misconceptions. The significance of the study was to guide policy and practice by establishing a foundation for resolving gender disparities and promoting inclusive development. The research used structured questionnaires, to collect quantitative data and interviews to gather qualitative data. This comprehensive method ensured a full investigation of the effect of gender stereotypes on socioeconomic outcomes, intending to provide useful insights to policymakers, academia, and civil society organizations. The sample size of 392 respondents was selected from the target population of 18,684 using purposive and stratified random sampling techniques. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and percentages, while inferential statistics involved Pearson Correlation Analysis using SPSS IBM version 21.0. Additionally, qualitative data was thematically analyzed and presented in narrative form. From the findings, the first objective showed that negative socio-cultural norms significantly restrict women's socio-economic development in the Cyeza Sector. Negative norms, with standard deviations between 0.392 and 0.418, undervalue women’s economic contributions and limit their leadership opportunities. The second objective was that religious beliefs, ranging from 0.365 to 0.415, impact gender roles and family dynamics, often hindering women’s autonomy. The third objective showed that leadership misconceptions, with standard deviations from 0.383 to 0.421, subject women to criticism and bias, restricting their leadership roles. Some recommendations were that bodies in charge of Gender equality should implement extensive education programs to challenge and change negative socio-cultural norms and stereotypes that undervalue women’s roles in the economy and leadership. The conclusion was that efforts to change cultural perceptions and encourage gender-inclusive practices are crucial for the comprehensive growth of the Cyeza Sector. Keywords: Gender, Gender Equality, Gender Mainstreaming, Socio-economic development, Gender social-cultural norms, and Gender stereotypes. Title: Gender Mainstreaming Stereotypes and Socio-Economic Development of Cyeza Sector in Rwanda Author: Ufitinema Marthe, Dr. Nadia Iradukunda, Michael Waweru International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2024 - December 2024 Page No: 79-87 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 24-October-2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13986973 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/gender-mainstreaming-stereotypes-and-socio-economic-development-of-cyeza-sector-in-rwanda