ASSESSMENT ON THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN CAMEROON'S POLITICAL SPHERE: PROGRESS AND OBSTACLES

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Since gaining independence from French Cameroon in 1960 and the reunification of British Southern Cameroons with the Cameroun Republic in 1961, women have had little representation in the legislative and executive branches of the Cameroonian government. However, the extensive body of literature on political leadership in African nations demonstrates a noticeable inclination towards male representation, starting with the traditional governing institutions and continuing into contemporary leadership. One may erroneously infer that women have seldom or only sometimes had political leadership roles. The establishment of colonial authority in African nations like Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Dahomey (Ngoh & Victor, 2018) directly contributed to the restricted participation of women in political leadership, and in some cases, their complete exclusion from leadership positions. This situation persisted both before and after these countries gained independence.However, before the colonial era, women were actively involved in decision-making and held positions of leadership. This severely contradicts the argument made by Schur, Adya, and Ameri (2015) that women have traditionally been marginalised and barred from political participation and political institutions. In Nigeria, like to several other African nations, there has been a notable scarcity of women occupying governmental positions, whether by election or appointment (Guzmán Rincón, Caballero & Pérez, 2021). In recent times, there has been an increasing number of women assuming leadership roles in both the administrative and legislative branches in Cameroon and other African nations. The convergence of gender and politics has been a topic of international discussion, shedding emphasis on the inadequate representation and obstacles encountered by women in political arenas around the globe. Cameroon, situated in Central Africa, presents a story of women's participation in politics that is influenced by historical, cultural, and socio-economic factors. The research examines the intricate terrain of women's involvement in Cameroonian politics, which is influenced by both advances and enduring obstacles (Ndille, 2021). The political history of Cameroon is characterised by the influence of colonialism, the fight for independence, and subsequent attempts to establish a country in the post-colonial era. Over the course of various time periods, women have had important although often disregarded roles in influencing political movements and promoting the pursuit of transformation. Nevertheless, their involvement in established political organisations has traditionally been restricted, indicating the influence of wider social conventions and hierarchical systems of authority. Over time, the legislative and institutional framework regarding women's involvement in politics in Cameroon has seen changes. The promotion of gender equality and women's representation has been facilitated via amendments to constitutional provisions and election rules (Lumley, 2020). As an example, the 1996 Constitution included affirmative action policies, such as the allocation of certain seats in parliament exclusively for women. Efforts to improve women's political involvement via subsequent law changes have been ongoing, however obstacles to implementation remain. The conceptions of gender roles and expectations in Cameroon are significantly influenced by deeply rooted socio-cultural norms (Groce & Mont, 2017). Conventional male-dominated systems often impede women's opportunities to attain political leadership roles. Cultural norms pertaining to women's societal roles, domestic duties, and participation in decision-making might impede their active engagement in politics. It is crucial to challenge these deeply ingrained practices in order to promote inclusive political settings. The capacity of women to participate in politics is greatly influenced by socio-economic variables, such as their access to education and economic empowerment (Jolley, et al, 2018). The educational achievement of women in Cameroon has been consistently increasing, which serves as a basis for enhanced political engagement. Nevertheless, there are ongoing economic inequalities that restrict the access of women who wish to engage in politics to necessary resources and networks. Notwithstanding efforts to advance gender parity in politics, Cameroonian women still encounter complex obstacles. These hurdles include several issues such as discriminatory behaviours, restricted access to resources and support networks, gender-based violence, and institutional obstacles inside political parties. However, there have been significant progressions, as women have assumed crucial political roles across several tiers of government, and the efforts of civil society activists have been vital in bringing about change. Although the current body of literature provides some understanding of the difficulties and advancements of women in Cameroonian politics, there is still a want for a thorough examination and factual data. This study aims to fill this void by analysing the complex factors that influence women's involvement in politics in Cameroon. The primary objective is to identify obstacles that impede women's progress in politics, evaluate the efficacy of current policies and initiatives, and investigate methods for augmenting women's presence and impact in the political domain (Opoku et al, 2016). Ultimately, the examination of the obstacles and advancements faced by women in Cameroonian politics is conducted within a multifaceted socio-political environment defined by historical inheritances, legal structures, socio-cultural forces, and economic inequalities. The research aims to contribute to informed policy-making and advocacy activities in Cameroon by clarifying these characteristics and analysing their consequences for women's political engagement, with the goal of promoting gender-inclusive political systems. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess  the role of women in Cameroon's political sphere: progress and obstacles.

1.2 Statement of the problem

In Cameroon, there is a significant gap between the desire for gender equality in political representation and the actual presence of women in influential decision-making roles, despite the growing acknowledgment of the significance of women's involvement in politics (Ndille, 2021). The objective of this study is to analyse the present state of women's engagement in the political domain of Cameroon, assessing both the advancements achieved and the enduring barriers impeding their complete participation. This research aims to analyse the fundamental causes that contribute to these differences, with the goal of offering valuable insights into successful ways for promoting women's political empowerment and achieving gender equality within Cameroon's political sphere. Hence, the need to assess the role of women in Cameroon's political sphere: progress and obstacles.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the role of women in Cameroon's political sphere: progress and obstacles. The specific objectives is as follows

To examine the historical evolution of women's participation in Cameroon's political sphere.

To identify the progress made by women in gaining political representation and influence in Cameroon.

To analyze the obstacles and challenges hindering women's full participation and leadership in Cameroon's political arena.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

What historical factors have shaped the involvement of women in Cameroon's political sphere?

What progress has been achieved by women in terms of political representation and leadership roles in Cameroon?

What are the main obstacles and challenges faced by women aspiring to participate actively in Cameroon's political arena?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will be significant to the following

Policy makers: Conducting research in this field may provide valuable insights into the efficacy of initiatives designed to advance gender equality in politics. Policymakers may devise focused measures to overcome the barriers encountered by women in the political realm and foster a more inclusive political climate by recognising these hurdles.

Empowerment and Advocacy Groups: Conducting research on women's involvement in Cameroon's political arena may empower women by increasing awareness of their efforts, showcasing successful experiences, and lobbying for policy reforms that foster gender equality. Additionally, it has the potential to motivate women to participate more actively in politics and assume leadership positions.

Academia: the findings of the study will be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on the role of women in Cameroon's political sphere: progress and obstacles. Empirically, the study will examine the historical evolution of women's participation in Cameroon's political sphere, identify the progress made by women in gaining political representation and influence in Cameroon and analyze the obstacles and challenges hindering women's full participation and leadership in Cameroon's political arena.

1.7 Limitations of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Politics:  the activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power.