P. A NGCOBO (33195072)

Critically discuss women in development and development approaches. Which of these are most useful in the SA context?

The feminist development theory states that women in the development field are being ignored and they are not given the same treatment and roles as men, this theory has four different approaches under it, namely; Women in development (WID), Women and development (WAD), Gender and development (GAD) AND finally, postmodernism and development (PAD).

WID approach - this was introduced by Esther Boserup who is against the process of modernization and states that only countries that are economically capable can exploit women. The approach showed that women can also be included in the agricultural sector.

Women and development approach - this approach argues that Women should be included in the modernization process and emphasis the notion that there should be interaction between women and development, rather than them integrating into it. 

Gender and development - this approach looks at the knowledge and barriers gathered from WID and WAD for both men and women, its aim is to ensure that both genders benefit from development.

Postmodernism and development - whereas this approach criticizes WID for seeing women as victims of development and not seeing the diversity of third world women. it emphasizes the fact that every part of the world is different and so are the requirements for women.

I believe all of these approaches (Postmodernism, development & gender) are important in a South African context because they acknowledge the work put by women in the development and that it differs in each country.