Gender transformation points to efforts done to change gender and social norms to address inequalities in power and privileges between persons of different genders, in order to free all people from harmful and destructive norms of a society while Social Inclusion is a concept that addresses improving access to livelihood assets and services for all, including the women, poor, and excluded groups within the society. It supports more inclusive policies and mindsets and increases the voice and influence of all including women.

Gender Transformation and Social Inclusion is therefore an important attribute within Local Authorities and quasi-government institutions because it is critical to achieving desired development outcomes as increased production, improved outcomes for poverty alleviation, increased well-being for all, and a fairer distribution of burdens and benefits among women and men in the workplace and in service delivery by the LA and quasi-government institutions. LAs and quasi-government institutions are critical in addressing GTSI issues as they are the closest level of government to the residents and also ensuring that women are part of decision makers within the hierarchy of the LA and quasi-government institutions (e.g. water and wastewater treatment plants).

Gender related issues have been high on the development agenda but progress within most LAs and quasi-government institutions has always been at infancy stage. Hence the course desire to answer the question: How do Local Authorities and quasi-government institutions institutionalise gender and social inclusion issues?