A conceptual framework for gender and climate mainstreaming to mitigate water inaccessibility in rural sub‐Saharan Africa

Evidence underscores that water inaccessibility in rural sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) disproportionately affects women due to patriarchal gender norms and practices. In the context of Sustainable Development Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 6 (Water and Sanitation), globally driven efforts and initiatives are set against a backdrop of empowering women, improving rural water accessibility, and reducing water‐related risks. Furthermore, climate change is altering spatiotemporal patterns of water availability and quality. A thematic analysis of the literature was conducted through Scopus and Web of Science to identify drivers and consequences of as well as coping strategies for water (in)accessibility in rural SSA. A conceptual framework was developed to better understand and assess research gaps and points of intervention for gender and climate mainstreaming in mitigation strategies that reduce the impacts of water inaccessibility in rural SSA. Findings show that complex intersecting factors underlie water inaccessibility—and responses—among rural women in SSA. The complex socio‐ecological interlinkages among climate change, water, and gender are discussed and a case is made for more integrative research (including dimensions of vulnerability, impacts, and effective grassroots strategies and co‐benefits) to inform policy, planning, and practice.