Women's Empowerment, Female Genital Mutilation and Domestic Violence in Tanzania: Evidence from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey 2022

Authors

• Monica Sebastian Kauky, University of Dar es salaamFollow
• Hinju Gabriel, University of Dar es SalaamFollow

Abstract

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) remains an important public health and human rights issue in Tanzania. This study uses data from the 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS) and applies logit and Tobit models to investigate the relationships between women’s empowerment, FGM/C, and domestic violence. The results indicate that approximately 3 percent of women had undergone FGM/C, while 44 percent had experienced domestic violence. Women’s educational attainment and control over land are also important factors associated with the prevalence of FGM/C. The findings further show a strong relationship between women’s autonomy and their exposure to domestic violence, particularly in relation to financial independence and decision-making power. The results highlight the need to implement grassroots-level programmes that promote female education, strengthen women’s sexual and reproductive rights, challenge harmful traditional gender roles, and reduce violence against women in Tanzania

Recommended Citation

Kauky, Monica Sebastian and Gabriel, Hinju (2025) "Women's Empowerment, Female Genital Mutilation and Domestic Violence in Tanzania: Evidence from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey 2022," Tanzanian Economic Review: Vol. 15: Iss. 2, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65085/2507-7740/1026
Available at: https://commons.udsm.ac.tz/ter/vol15/iss2/6