| dc.description.abstract | This study of Women in Small scale enterprise in
Nairobi, Kenya, explores the potential of women
entrepreneurs and their contribution to economic
development. It is set within the context of an ongoing
informal sector debate, which originated in the
-1970s, concerning unemployment and rural to urban
.migration. The study focuses on the social economic
implications, types of business they operate and the
constraints faced by women entrepreneurs in Nairobi.
The research identifies two forms of small scale
enterprise ran by women in Nairobi. Those run by women
entrepreneurs who have settled in Nairobi (fixed
mode) ,
and those run by women who make regular visits to
Nairobi for the purpose of conducting business (non
fixed mode).
The study was carried out in three site areas
namely Burma, Kariokor and Wakulima Markets. The
sampling was, based on female owned enterprises in
Nairobi. Both social and business profiles were
examined.
Major research- findings of the study are that -lit.
marital status, education and training are important
factors determining the type of business to operate . .Further
training and education are important factors
e acquisition of managerial skills. Women's
participation in business (i.e. amount of income
earned) is determined by a number of factors such as
education. marital status, sales, number of children
and record keeping. However, women are heavily
concentrated in service and trading activities which
are paradoxically less likely to be profitable due to
several limitations they face.
The main recommendations of the study provide a
gender specific policy and an enabling environment
inorder to promote and strengthen women activities in
urban areas. | en |
