Religious Leadership Practices and Women's Participation in Community Development Initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijcrs.4053Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the religious leadership practices and women's participation in community development initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
Findings: The findings suggested that religious leadership practices significantly influence women’s participation in community development initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa by shaping opportunities for empowerment, decision-making, resource mobilization, and leadership involvement. Inclusive religious leadership practices, particularly gender-sensitive teachings, mentorship, and participatory decision-making, are associated with greater women’s involvement in education, healthcare, poverty reduction, and community welfare programmes. However, patriarchal religious structures, restrictive cultural beliefs, and limited representation of women in leadership positions continue to constrain their participation, highlighting the need for gender-responsive religious leadership and institutional reforms.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Transformational leadership theory, social role theory, empowerment theory may be used to anchor future studies on the religious leadership practices and women's participation in community development initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study is expected to provide practical insights for religious leaders, faith-based organizations, women's associations, and community development practitioners seeking to strengthen women's participation in community development initiatives across Sub-Saharan Africa. The study is expected to inform the development of gender-responsive policies that strengthen women's participation in community development initiatives supported by religious institutions across Sub-Saharan Africa.
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