There are conflicting research findings on women’s empowerment because of different methods and populations. Some scholars discovered that over time women’s income control has increased, while others have not found any increase. To shed more light on the phenomenon, this research examines the extent and predictors of women’s independence on making spending decisions whilst living with their spouse. The analysis reveals that, in overall, only a few women in Tanzania exercise discretion on spending their own incomes within the households. Also, women with formal education were over seven times more likely than men with such education to decide independently on how to spend their money. Further, employed women are over two times more likely to make independent spending decisions than those in the self-employment sector. The results suggest that employment by private sector, non-governmental or civil society organisations and government helps women gain control over their money. Policymakers and gender activists should ensure that self-employment mirrors the nature of non-self-employment to increase women’s empowerment prospects. Also, education stakeholders should ensure girls and women attain good quality education at all levels.
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