Gendered Access to Indirect Benefits from Natural Gas Extraction in Kilwa District, Tanzania

Abstract

Natural gas extraction contributes substantially to the economy of many countries around the world were natural gas resource is found. Despite its potential benefits, it is not known to what extent the benefits are equally enjoyed by both men and women in the respective host communities. The existing studies focus more on benefit-sharing at the national level and lack gender analysis. Using a cross-sectional design, a study was conducted to establish gendered access to indirect benefits from natural gas extraction. Quantitative data were collected from 373 households and qualitative data through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and participant observation Findings revealed that about 53% of community members categorized access to indirect benefits to be of high level. The indirect benefits largely cut across investments and support in education, health, water, and employment opportunities. The study concludes that, while investment by Extractive Companies (ECs) has managed to improve health services the shortage of technical staff has remained unsolved. Likewise, while various benefits revealed to exist in education the chronic problem on girls drops out of school remains to be a challenge. Therefore, the study recommends various strategies to be adopted to address the remaining gender-related challenges that limit fully enjoyment from ECs investment among men and women.