Gendered dispute resolution and property inheritance rights: the roles of widows and daughters in Maasai customary practices in Tanzania

Abstract

Property inheritance rights dispute is a socio-cultural gendered problem that has persisted over the years in Tanzania. This study addresses the problem through a peacebuilding perspective using a gendered dispute resolution framework that has not been explored in other previous studies. This study seeks to examine the roles of Maasai widows and daughters in property inheritance rights dispute in Tanzania and what roles they play in the gendered process of the inheritance dispute resolution based on customary rules. The findings have shown that both Maasai widows and daughters, whether married or unmarried, do not have leadership and decision-making roles. However, they are great listeners and observers during the dispute resolution process. Therefore, for theory contribution, this study affirms that dominant Maasai customs and traditions are male-dominated, limiting the participation and contribution of widows and daughters, both married and unmarried, in the inheritance dispute resolution process. Lastly, for policy implication this study suggests that there is a need for government and non-government organizations to help and emphasize more on gender-inclusiveness within Maasai societies, especially at the rural societies.