A Thousand Hills and Sixteen Women: Exploring Institutions and Female Leadership in Rwanda

Abstract

This research paper inves*gates how ins*tu*onal factors shape women's experiences in leadership. We inves*gate this issue in Kigali, Rwanda, a country widely recognized and applauded for its commitment and achievements in promo*ng gender equality. This research paper uses a qualita*ve methodology and is set out as an exploratory study based on a field research design. Using the experiences of 16 female leaders, we analyzed data from in-depth interviews, observa*ons, and secondary resources to account for the role of intersec*onality in ins*tu*onal theory. We analyze this data using a Thema*c Analysis style, allowing us to focus on shared experiences and their ascribed significance. We find that formal ins*tu*ons, par*cularly the Inheritance Law (1999), gender-sensi*ve Cons*tu*on (2003), and an*-GBV Law (2009), have contributed to advancing gender equality in Rwanda. Social conven*ons, such as tradi*onal gender roles, and cultural-cogni*ve factors, including women’s self-confidence, remain significant barriers. The findings of our study demonstrate that intersec*onality represents a pivotal aspect that shapes the degree of ins*tu*onal power exerted over women and underscores the significance of employing equity strategies to mi*gate intermediate barriers. The study also highlights the interplay between formal and informal ins*tu*ons, revealing that top-down changes ini*ated through formal ins*tu*ons have the poten*al to shape the norma*ve and cultural-cogni*ve pillars by offering descrip*ve and symbolic representa*on. However, our findings suggest that achieving significant transforma*on within the norma*ve pillar presents a formidable challenge constraining the effec*ve development of the other two pillars. The study emphasizes the need for gender policies that account for intersec*onality to prevent a widening gap between ‘elite’ and ‘disadvantaged‘ women. The findings offer valuable insights and recommenda*ons for policymakers and prac**oners seeking to promote gender equity and women's leadership in Rwanda and other similar contexts.