Journal of Horn of Africa Studies | 23 July 2006
Gender Disparity in Water Sanitation and Hygiene Education Strategies Among Primary School Girls in Dar-es-Salaam Slums, Tanzania: A Mixed Methods Study
M, w, a, k, a, l, a, n, i, S, i, c, h, o, n, e, ,, K, a, m, a, n, d, a, M, w, a, l, i, m, u
Abstract
This study examines gender disparities in water sanitation and hygiene education strategies implemented among primary school girls in Dar-es-Salaam slums, focusing on educational opportunities and resource allocation. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from surveys (\(N=500)\) and qualitative data through interviews (\(n=50)\). Data were collected over a year in Dar-es-Salaam slums. Quantitative analysis included chi-square tests to identify significant differences between genders. Findings revealed that female students faced higher barriers in accessing water sanitation resources compared to male counterparts, with approximately 30% fewer girls completing hygiene education programmes due to gender-related challenges. The study concludes that existing educational strategies need to be tailored more specifically to address the unique needs and challenges faced by primary school girls in Dar-es-Salaam slums. This includes providing additional support for female students to ensure equitable access to water sanitation resources. Recommendations include increasing teacher training on gender-sensitive hygiene education, implementing gender-specific interventions, and enhancing community engagement efforts to foster a supportive environment for female students.