SOCIAL-CULTURAL FACTORS AND WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN ELECTIVE POLITICS IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA

  • FIONA JILL ADHIAMBO MPPA Student, School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya
  • WEDLON KIBET NG’ENO, PhD Lecturer, Department of Public Policy and Administration, Kenyatta University, Kenya
Keywords: Cultural Norms, Educational Attainment, Gender Stereotypes, Religious Beliefs

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of cultural norms and traditions on educational attainment, evaluate the effects of gender stereotypes, and ascertain the influence of religious beliefs on women's participation in electoral politics in Nairobi City County. Descriptive research design was used in this research, targeting 6 Women MCAs, 2 Female MPs in Nairobi City County, 1 Women Rep and 33 Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA). The study was anchored on the social role and the cultural norms theories. Primary data was unruffled using structured questionnaire and interview guide. Descriptive statistics utilized the mean and standard deviation, whereas inferential statistics will employ regression and correlation models, along with Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Fisher’s test. The analysis of qualitative data was conducted through content analysis. The study presented the data analysis through frequency tables, percentages, pie charts, bar graphs, and the resulting regression model. Anonymity, confidentiality and informed consent was upheld and ensured to conform with the ethical considerations for the research. This study concluded that socio-cultural factors significantly influence women's participation in elective politics in Nairobi City County, acting as both formidable barriers and, at times, subtle enablers. While education emerges as a powerful tool that empowers women, enhances their confidence, and provides essential skills for political engagement, it does not entirely insulate them from the pervasive negative impacts of cultural norms and deeply entrenched gender stereotypes. Furthermore, religious beliefs present a mixed influence; while individual faith can be a source of personal empowerment, community interpretations and the actions of religious leaders can either encourage or subtly hinder women's political ambitions. The Ministry of Education should integrate comprehensive civic education into curricula from early stages, emphasizing gender equality in leadership and celebrating women's political achievements to normalize their roles. Future research should delve deeper into how various socio-cultural factors intersect, for example, how ethnicity and marital status combine with gender to create unique political pathways for women in Nairobi.

Author Biographies

FIONA JILL ADHIAMBO, MPPA Student, School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

MPPA Student, School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences, Kenyatta University, Kenya

WEDLON KIBET NG’ENO, PhD, Lecturer, Department of Public Policy and Administration, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Lecturer, Department of Public Policy and Administration, Kenyatta University, Kenya

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Published
2025-10-06
Section
Articles