Exploring gender factors affecting women's involvement in public health capacity development programmes in Nigeria

Gender-sensitive workforce capacity development (WCD) is needed in the public health care system to advance global health, achieve universal health coverage, and accomplish sustainable development goals. Globally, there has been a progressive trend towards increased gender diversity within the public health workforce, however; gaps still exist especially in access to workforce capacity development opportunities for women. This study aimed to assess gender-related factors affecting women's participation in workforce capacity development in public health space in Nigeria.

This study adopted a desk review and a qualitative approach to gain insights into the WCD challenges faced by women working in public health in Nigeria. The study duration was conducted between April 2023 and October 2023. Data were collected through a desk review of recent literature and from focused group discussions (FGDs), in-depth interviews (IDIs) and key informant interviews (KIIs). Recordings from all the interviews and FGDs were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analysed thematically.

Barriers to women's participation in Health WCD included gender stereotyping, sexual harassment, marriage, family obligations, pregnancy and childbearing, lack of self-confidence, insecurity, socio-cultural and ethnic diversity, inconvenient timing and impromptu notice of opportunities, lack of funding and poor level of education. There are enablers- Gender-related policies and practices within the workspace, and strategies to limit the barriers which include awareness campaigns, financial incentives, a supportive environment, and workplace mentorship.

The findings of this study revealed that women's participation in health WCD is limited by gender stereotyping, socio-cultural and political barriers. This is in addition to poor implementation and practice of existing gender-related policies. Addressing these barriers would require increasing sensitisation and awareness campaigns to promote knowledge and implementation of available gender policies in workplaces, addressing socio-cultural norms, and providing a supportive workplace environment for women.