Navigating Household Care Dynamics: Examining Gendered Roles in Low-Income Tanzanian Households
Abstract
This study critically examined the gendered division of household care work in low-income households in Tanzania, exploring the relationship between cultural norms, economic realities, and gender roles. The study utilised a narrative literature review to synthesise existing research from 2000 to 2024 on the socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to gender inequalities in household care dynamics. Findings indicate that women spend an average of 4.4 hours of unpaid care work daily, compared to 1.4 hours for men, limiting their participation in paid employment and reinforcing economic dependency. Although urban areas exhibit a gradual shift toward shared caregiving, traditional gender norms remain deeply entrenched, particularly in rural areas. Despite the existence of frameworks such as Tanzania's Vision 2025, weak enforcement and cultural resistance hinder progress. The study concludes that addressing gendered household care dynamics is essential for advancing gender equality, enhancing household well-being, and fostering sustainable social development in Tanzania. The study calls for gender-sensitive social protection programs, recognition of unpaid work in labour policies and increased male engagement in caregiving responsibilities
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