Understanding Married Women’s Experiences in Resolving Marital Disputes Through Vicoba Participation in Kondoa and Dodoma City Councils, Tanzania
摘要
This paper explores the experiences of married women in resolving marital disputes through their participation in Village Community Banks (VICOBA) in Tanzania. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 20 women actively involved in VICOBA. The findings reveal that participation in VICOBA not only provides financial resources but also fosters social networks that empower women to address and resolve marital conflicts. Women reported enhanced communication skills, increased self-esteem, and a greater capacity to negotiate within their marriages as a result of their involvement in these community-based financial groups. Additionally, the study highlights the role of VICOBA in promoting gender equity and improving women’s overall socio-economic status. This research contributes to the understanding of how community initiatives can serve as platforms for conflict resolution and women’s empowerment in Tanzania, suggesting policy implications for enhancing women’s roles in both economic and social spheres.