CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction

Gender inequality is a worldwide issue that persists despite efforts to promote gender equality and women’s rights. In many societies, women face systemic disadvantages resulting from deeply ingrained sexist attitudes and practices. Cameroon is no exception to this trend, and the Fako Division in the South West region is not exempt from the impact of sexist biases. This study aims to investigate the types, causes, and effects of sexist bias in Fako Division.

1.1 Background Of The Study

Gender inequality and sexist bias are widespread issues affecting societies worldwide. Despite the efforts of governments and organizations to promote gender equality and women’s rights, women continue to face barriers to achieving equal opportunities and access to resources. Cameroon is no exception to this trend, and the Fako Division in the South West region is not exempt from the impact of sexist biases.

Cameroon is a country located in Central Africa, with a population of approximately 28.7 million people. According to the World Bank, women make up 50.7% of the population. The country has made progress in promoting gender equality and women’s rights, particularly in the areas of education and political participation. For example, the country has implemented policies aimed at increasing the number of girls enrolled in schools and improving their access to education. Additionally, in 2018, women held 26% of the seats in the National Assembly, an increase from 20% in 2013.

However, despite these efforts, gender inequality and sexist bias persist in Cameroon. Women continue to face discrimination in various aspects of their lives, including education, employment, and access to healthcare. In many cases, women are not treated equally to men, and this results in limited opportunities, reduced access to resources, and lack of political representation.

The Fako Division is one of the areas in Cameroon affected by sexist biases. The division is located in the South West region and is home to a diverse population, with different cultural backgrounds and beliefs. The region has a mix of urban and rural areas, with different levels of access to resources and services. Women in Fako Division may face discrimination in various aspects of their lives, such as education, employment, and access to healthcare.

Education

Education is a fundamental right and a key tool for promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. However, women in Fako Division may face barriers to accessing education, particularly in rural areas. According to the Cameroon National Institute of Statistics, the literacy rate for women in the South West region is 71.9%, compared to 82.8% for men. Additionally, girls may face early marriage and pregnancy, which can limit their access to education.

Employment

Women in Fako Division may also face discrimination in the labor market. According to the Cameroon National Institute of Statistics, the labor force participation rate for women in the South West region is 71.4%, compared to 86.2% for men. Additionally, women may face wage discrimination, with women earning less than men for the same job.

Healthcare

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, but women in Fako Division may face barriers to accessing healthcare services. According to the Cameroon National Institute of Statistics, the maternal mortality rate in the South West region is 782 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to 547 deaths per 100,000 live births for the country as a whole. Additionally, women may face limited access to reproductive health services, including family planning.

Causes of Sexist Bias

The causes of sexist bias are complex and multifaceted. In many cases, sexist attitudes and practices are deeply ingrained in cultural and social norms. Women may be viewed as inferior to men and may be subject to gender-based violence and discrimination. Additionally, women may face limited access to education and employment, which can perpetuate gender inequality.

Effects of Sexist Bias

The effects of sexist bias on women’s lives are significant. Women may face limited opportunities and reduced access to resources, which can limit their economic and social mobility. Additionally, women may be subject to gender-based violence and discrimination, which can have negative physical and mental health consequences. Sexist bias can also limit women’s political representation and participation, which can perpetuate gender inequality.

1.2 Research Problem

Over the past decades and recent times, sexist bias are increasing and knowledge on these societal aspects, its awareness have been rising. Sexist bias has increasingly come to be recognized as a serious problem at the international level, not only for women but also for the attainment of equality, development and peace.

Violence against women, girls and boys is a widespread issue that can take place in the work place, online, in the dark streets, in schools and even in public administrations, families, communities and hospitals in the Fako division.

The stigma associated with Sexist bias can stop the victims from sharing their experiences, reporting the incidents and accessing support. Some of these victims are more vulnerable to violence such as living in poverty, immigration status and discrimination due to age, race and sexual orientation which in turn affects the socio-economic foundations in Fako division.

The effects of these sexist bias on the socio-economic foundations of the society especially in the Fako division, southwest region Cameroon have been numerous and alarming. These socio-economic effects are experienced at all levels in the Fako division.

Although there have been several measures put in place by NGOs, legal institutions, social institutions to fight against this gender stereotypes in Fako division, the gender stereotypes still continues and leaves us with its numerous social and economic effects and these thoughts of How do sexist bias conditions affect the socio-economic foundations of the community in Fako Division, South West Region Cameroon.

1.3 Research Questions

1.3.1 Principal Questions

What are the types, causes, and effects of sexist bias in Fako Division (South West Cameroon)?

1.3.2 Secondary Questions

1. What types of Sexist Bias in the Fako Division are common?
2. What are the causes and effects of Sexist Bias in Fako Division (South West Cameroon)?

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