The role of women in Socio-Economic Development: A Case Study of Women involved in small-scale business in Nairobi County

Abstract

The study main objective was to find out the role of women in socio-economic development, with a case study of women within the slums of Nairobi County. To achieve this objective, the study was guided by the following specific objectives: To determine the women perception of the concept of social economic development, establish the role of women in socio-economic development in the community, determine the factors that challenge women in their daily lives while carrying out their social economic activities, investigate the efforts being done by women and other stakeholders to alleviate the social economic development challenges. To achieve these objectives, the research use both quantitative and qualitative approach to collect and analyze the data. The quantitative approach was met through the use of demographic information, while the qualitative findings were by the use of In-depth interviews for Key informants and focus group discussions (FGDs). The target population was middle aged women, of ages between 25 and 65 years. The sample size was 15 women living within various slum areas within Nairobi County. These slums were purposively selected to give representative information. The findings of the research were analyzed using the SPSS, Thematic and Content analysis. The findings were presented in pie charts, tables, columns and in themes. The findings of the research show that the women have a clear understanding of development. The factors that contribute to underdevelopment are lack of skills to run investments at 33.3%, cultural beliefs and insecurity at 26.6%, and bad policies at 13.3%. The study shows that majority of the women living in slum areas of Nairobi County engage in selling vegetables and fruits. . The main challenges women face while engaging in social economic development activities are lack of capital such at 33.3% and cultural expectations in patriarchal society at 26.6%. The findings of the study show that social-economic activities impact positively to women and in the society in general. Women are able to support their family; there is reduced poverty and cases of domestic violence as a result of improved household income. The study gave the recommendation which can help women overcome the challenges they face. First, women should be provided with funds. Secondly, policies which empower women to start business activities should be revised and improved. Lastly, the society should be educated in order to fight gender discrimination and gender inequality.