Abstract:
The study aimed to evaluate the impact of gender equality on socio-economic development in
Rwanda, specifically in Nyarugenge District. Particularly the study sought to assess the causes of
gender discrimination and violence in Nyarugenge District; to find out the current efforts to
attain gender equality in Nyarugenge District; to point out the current gaps in achieving gender
equality in Nyarugenge District; to evaluate the correlation between gender equality and the
socio-economic development in Nyarugenge District and also to highlight the suggestions and
recommendations. The sample size was 400 respondents selected from the total population of
186,897 including Members of Private sector and public servants (Sector of Education, Health,
Local Authorities) in Nyarugenge District. The study used cluster sampling; researcher divide a
population into smaller groups known as clusters. Thereafter, probability (simple random) and
non-probability (purposive) sampling techniques used to choose sampled respondents. Primary
data was gathered using questionnaires and interview guide. Questionnaires and interview were
used to collect primary data. Descriptive statistics were used where distribution (frequencies,
percentages) through statistical package for social sciences (SPSS, 23.0). The findings indicate
that gender-equitable education empowers both genders and promotes vital life skills, enhances
community safety by preventing violence against women and girls, and supports economic
growth. Respondents recognized the efforts of Nyarugenge district and government in social
protection and implementing gender-responsive laws. Gender equality within families aids
economic support, emotional support, and effective child-rearing. The study found significant
effects of gender equality on education, health, sanitation, and employment, with a moderate
impact on justice, politics, and leadership, and a slight effect on business inclusion. All chi-
square test p-values were below 0.05, confirming a significant relationship between gender
equality and these outcomes. Therefore, gender equality should be explicitly integrated into laws
and policies to ensure stakeholder commitment and effective development.
