Assessment of Women’s Empowerment in Mitigating Domestic Violence in Tanzania

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.