Gender related issues are crucial to the success of MPP9. The nature of gender issues in MPP9 is twofold:

1. Each project will be designed to incorporate gender related concerns, including the number of individuals benefiting from specific micro-projects and assurances that project implementation will not negatively impact the outcomes of women men or vulnerable groups involved directly in the project implementation.

2. The monitoring and evaluation of each project must yield salient information both on the success of the project addressing gender related issues and regarding the number and types of participants served.

To enthrone gender equity, MPP9 will ensure that:

•   All stakeholders (Men, women and youths) have equal access to basic infrastructure by inputting their assessment into the selection of projects, citing, fixing of charges for services and management of the facilities.

•   Affirmative actions will be adopted (at least 30% representation by women)

•   Women are involved throughout the process of project design and in the development of five years Community Development Action Plans.

•   Individual projects specifically targeted at groups of women are designed and implemented.

•   CSOs/NGOs working specifically on gender issues will be supported

•   Equal access to project benefits for men, women, boys, girls and other vulnerable groups, irrespective of age and class.