Gender Analysis Report: Takunda Resilience Food Security Activity

The program's overall objective is to identify gender gaps, potential risks, and opportunities for women, men, female and male youth, and to inform adjustments to the Theory of Change and the design of Takunda's Gender Strategy. The Gender Analysis was conducted using participatory, qualitative, mixed methods with diverse groups of community members in selected districts of Mutare (Manicaland), Zaka, and Chivi (Masvingo). The analysis investigated socio-cultural norms, behaviors, and religious practices that influence patterns of power, decision-making, access to and control of assets, and intra-household role distribution, and how these impact household food securities, nutrition, and the ability to cope with stressors and shocks. Findings from the analysis indicate that women in the study areas face significant challenges in accessing and controlling productive assets and resources, including land, livestock, and financial services. Women also experience limited access to services, participation in leadership and decision-making in public spaces, and are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence, including early and child marriage. The analysis also highlights the importance of addressing the socio-cultural norms and behaviors that perpetuate gender inequality, including the limited mobility and time use constraints faced by women. The study found that women's participation in income-generating activities is limited, and they have limited access to training and capacity-building opportunities. The Gender Analysis has identified key learnings and recommendations for Takunda's Gender Strategy, including the need to address the root causes of gender inequality, promote women's empowerment and participation in decision-making, and provide targeted support to women-headed households. The analysis also recommends the development of an action plan to respond to gender equity gaps and negative gender stereotypes. The study sites for the analysis included Mutare, Zaka, and Chivi districts, which are located in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces. The study population consisted of community members, including women, men, female and male youth, and household heads. The data collection methods used included focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and surveys. The analysis found that women's access to and control of productive assets and resources is limited, with only 22% of women reporting ownership of land, compared to 45% of men. Women also have limited access to financial services, with only 15% of women reporting access to credit, compared to 30% of men. The study's findings will inform adjustments to the Theory of Change and the design of Takunda's Gender Strategy, which will include an action plan to respond to gender equity gaps and negative gender stereotypes. The analysis will also inform the development of targeted interventions to address the socio-cultural norms and behaviors that perpetuate gender inequality.