Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)

View Issue TOC

Microcredit Schemes and Empowerment Among Female Business Owners in Nairobi Informal Settlements: An Assessment

Mutua Gitonga, Maseno University Muriuki Wambui, Maseno University Kamau Ochieng, Maseno University
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18957557
Published: June 25, 2012

Abstract

Microcredit schemes have been implemented in various parts of Africa to support small businesses, particularly those owned by women living in informal settlements. In Nairobi, Kenya, these initiatives aim to empower female entrepreneurs through access to financial resources and training. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights through interviews and focus group discussions. The sample included over 200 female entrepreneurs who have benefited from microcredit programmes for at least one year. Microcredit schemes significantly increased the average income of participants by 35% compared to a baseline period, highlighting their effectiveness in boosting business revenues among Nairobi's informal settlement residents. While microcredit has proven beneficial, challenges such as high interest rates and lack of collateral remain significant barriers to full economic empowerment for female entrepreneurs in these communities. Policy recommendations include reducing interest rates, enhancing access to collateral-free financing options, and expanding support services beyond financial assistance to address broader business development needs.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Mutua Gitonga, Muriuki Wambui, Kamau Ochieng (2012). Microcredit Schemes and Empowerment Among Female Business Owners in Nairobi Informal Settlements: An Assessment. African Nanochemistry Letters (Pure/Applied Science), Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18957557

Keywords

KenyanEmpowerment StudiesMicrofinanceGender EconomicsDevelopment PolicyParticipatory ResearchSocial Capital

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2012 No. 1 (2012)
Current Journal
African Nanochemistry Letters (Pure/Applied Science)

References