• Hewan Birhanu
• Rajendrakumar Parmar

This study aimed to assess the practices and challenges of gender mainstreaming in Welenchiti Town, East Central Ethiopia. The research employed an descriptive design, utilizing a quantitative approach to investigate how gender mainstreaming policies, strategies, and programs are implemented in selected government and non-government organizations. Data were gathered from a target population of 186 women employees across 22 government and 6 non-government offices, using both primary and secondary sources. The primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews and questionnaires, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. The data analysis was conducted using both quantitative and qualitative techniques, with results presented in frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that a significant portion of the respondents were in their productive years, with most holding at least a diploma or degree, indicating a moderate level of educational attainment. Despite this, the study uncovered substantial challenges related to gender norms and cultural attitudes within organizations, which hinder the effective implementation of gender mainstreaming initiatives. Moreover, while there was some evidence of openness and commitment to women's empowerment, the overall organizational commitment to gender mainstreaming was found to be lacking. The study highlights the need for stronger institutional frameworks and cultural shifts to ensure the success of gender mainstreaming efforts in the region.

Gender Mainstreaming; Women Empowerment; Socio-Cultural Challenges

"Practices and Challenges of Gender Mainstreaming: The Case of Welenchiti Town, East Central Ethiopia", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 8, page no.e566-e575, August-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2408567.pdf

"Practices and Challenges of Gender Mainstreaming: The Case of Welenchiti Town, East Central Ethiopia", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 8, page no. ppe566-e575, August-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2408567.pdf