Gender Justice and Legal Empowerment in Rural Senegal: A Comparative Analysis

This study examines gender justice and legal empowerment in rural Senegal, focusing on women’s rights to land ownership. The research employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from a survey with qualitative insights from interviews and focus group discussions among local women’s organizations. Data indicated that only 35% of surveyed women had formal legal documentation for their land rights, highlighting significant disparities in legal recognition compared to urban areas. The analysis reveals persistent gender biases within Senegalese legal systems and identifies a need for comprehensive reforms to enhance the legal empowerment of rural women. Recommendation includes advocating for legislative changes that recognise customary land rights alongside formal documents, and increasing access to legal education programmes in rural communities.