Gender Inequality and Poverty in Kansanga, Makindye Division, Kampala Uganda

ABSTRACT This is a research report that was set out to establish the relationship between gender inequalities and poverty among 125 conveniently selected households in Kansanga parish, Makindye Division, Kampala district, Uganda. Using a descriptive comparative and Correlational survey designs, data was gathered from respondents through a questionnaire and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively using frequencies, percentages, means, t-test, Chi~square and Pearson’s Linear Correlation Coefficient. The study objectives included describing the relationship between poverty and gender differences in terms of education, assets distribution and ownership, and decision making and employment. Firstly, results showed significant gender inequalities in education, with both men and women having acquired some level of education though males outnumbered the females in the graduate qualifications. Secondly, there was relative gender equality in terms of assets distribution and ownership. Thirdly, there was relative gender equality in terms of decision making and employment. However, relative gender inequality was found to be prevailing in terms of consultations on the use of assets, where the male were the only ones consulted on almost everything. In addition, the dominant causes of gender inequality as cited by the respondents were; lack of control over resources (70%), lack of decision making power (66%), Unemployment (45%), Cultural beliefs and attitudes (42%) and religious beliefs (42%). Using the Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient (PLCC), results indicate that poverty is significantly correlated with gender inequality in terms of education attainment, assets distribution, asset ownership, sharing of assets in the family and access to salaried employment. However, an insignificant correlation was found between poverty and gender inequality in terms of decision making power and consultation. In conclusion, since gender inequality was found to have a direct impact on poverty in terms of access to education, employment, and assets ownership among others, the researcher recommended influential institutions like the government and civil society organisations to promote engendered development in all sectors and at all levels.