Abstract:
This study assessed the women’s empowerment in mitigating domestic violence in
Babati District Council. The study was guided by two theories namely; the
Empowerment Theory and Trauma-informed Theory with three specific research
objectives which were to examine the women’s empowerment strategy in mitigating
domestic violence, to determine the impact of women’s empowerment strategy in
mitigating domestic violence, and to identify the gaps in the women’s empowerment
strategy in mitigating domestic violence. The study employed a pragmatism research
philosophy, a mixed-method research approach and a convergent research design.
The target population was 333 people. Probability and non-probability sampling
techniques were used to obtain 72 respondents. Data was collected using
questionnaires and interview guides. The validity and reliability of the research
instrument were ensured by the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) lectures and
pilot testing of data collection instruments. Data was analyzed using descriptive
statistics and thematic analysis techniques. Regarding the women’s empowerment
practices, findings revealed a satisfactory participation rate in training on domestic
violence recognition, alongside low empowerment for supporting victims and an
inadequate community support network. Regarding the impact of women’s
empowerment, findings showed varied perceptions on domestic violence prevalence,
low reporting confidence among women, and inadequate shifts in societal attitudes
towards victims within women's empowerment practices. About the challenges,
findings revealed poor agency coordination, improved awareness of legal rights for
victims, and reporting hurdles for women in domestic violence incidents. The study
It's important to make sure women feel more empowered when dealing with
domestic violence by getting them more involved in training, providing better
community support, and boosting their confidence to report incidents. To improve
this, agencies need to work together better, raise awareness about legal rights, and
actively help women overcome reporting challenges. The study highlights the need
for enhanced empowerment strategies, improved community support networks, and a
shift in societal attitudes to effectively combat domestic violence.
