Investigating the Experiences of Young Women’s Participation in Politics in Informal Settlements: A Case of Mchini and Navutika Compounds, Chipata District, Zambia

Abstract

Despite growing international support for gender equality in political representation, young women in informal settlements continue to be underrepresented and encounter particular obstacles that prevent them from actively participating in politics. Against this background, this research was undertaken to investigate the experiences of young women’s participation in politics in the informal settlements of Mchini and Navutika of Chipata district. This study used a qualitative approach, gathering information from focus groups and in-depth interviews with young women to investigate their viewpoints and lived experiences. Purposive sampling was employed to select young women who belonged to political parties and those who were active members of civil society organisations on their lived experiences in these informal settlements. The results show how socioeconomic, cultural, and institutional factors interact in a complicated way to influence young women's political participation. Social norms and gender prejudices combine with structural issues like poverty, lack of access to education, and insufficient political mentoring to deter women from pursuing leadership positions. Nevertheless, the study also identifies examples of agency and resiliency in which young women overcome these limitations to make their political voices heard. The influence of role models in leadership, civil society organizations' lobbying, and community support networks are noteworthy motivators. This research adds to the expanding conversation on inclusive governance, by providing localized insights into the lived realities of young women in informal settlements. It emphasizes the need for focused interventions to break down systemic barriers, empower young women, and create an environment that supports their political participation. The study highlights the need for policies and programs that address socioeconomic disparities, support gender-sensitive political frameworks, and support capacity-building initiatives for young women who want to be leaders. Keywords: Young Women, Political Participation, Experiences