A Qualitative Study Exploring Factors Contributing to Gender Inequality in Rural Ghana

Abstract

Gender inequality hinders the development efforts of countries worldwide, especially developing countries. Despite Ghana
government’s efforts to address gender inequality, the issue continues to prevail, and invariably retards development mostly in
rural communities. This qualitative study, explored factors that perpetuated gender inequality in Kyebi, in the Ashanti Region of
Ghana. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were utilized to recruit twenty-five participants and in-depth
interviews were conducted to gather data for the study. The findings of the study revealed that deep rooted patterns of culture
and socialization continue to perpetuate gender inequality in rural communities denying women equal access to services as
well as to physical and social capital. Based on the findings of our study, we draw attention to the need for research and policy
interventions that would reduce gender inequalities and ensure women’s active participation in social and economic
development.