Gender Mainstreaming and Policy Implementation in Katsina State, Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

Amina Lawal Mashi

doi:10.56201/ajha.v10.no2.2026.pg33.46

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Gender Mainstreaming and Policy Implementation in Katsina State, Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

Amina Lawal Mashi

Abstract

Gender mainstreaming has emerged as a critical global strategy for promoting gender equality and inclusive development, particularly since its adoption at the Beijing Platform for Action. In Nigeria, efforts to institutionalize gender mainstreaming through policy frameworks have been evident; however, implementation at sub-national levels remains uneven and constrained. This paper examines gender mainstreaming and policy implementation in Katsina State, Nigeria, with a focus on identifying key challenges and prospects. The study adopts a qualitative and conceptual approach, drawing on existing literature, policy documents, and theoretical insights from Feminist Theory, Gender and Development Theory, and Public Policy Implementation Theory. The analysis reveals that despite the existence of national frameworks such as the National Gender Policy, implementation in Katsina State is hindered by deeply rooted socio-cultural and religious norms, patriarchal structures, weak institutional capacity, inadequate funding, limited political will, and poor monitoring mechanisms. The findings further indicate that gender mainstreaming efforts are often undermined by low levels of awareness, limited participation of women in decision-making, and the absence of reliable gender- disaggregated data. However, the study also identifies significant prospects, including increased advocacy by civil society organizations, support from international agencies such as UN Women, policy reforms, expanding access to education, and the growing influence of digital media in promoting gender equality. The paper concludes that while gender mainstreaming remains a vital tool for achieving sustainable development and social inclusion in Katsina State, its success depends on addressing structural and institutional barriers through comprehensive and context- specific strategies. It recommends strengthening policy implementation frameworks, enhancing institutional capacity, promoting community engagement, and improving monitoring and evaluation systems to ensure effective integration of gender perspectives in development planning.

Keywords

Gender Mainstreaming; Policy Implementation; Gender Equality; Katsina State; Nigeria; Development

References

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Gender Mainstreaming and Policy Implementation in Katsina State, Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

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