The influence of microfinance services in empowering women: a case of selected women groups in Eldama Ravine location, Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

Women bear a disproportionate burden of the world's poverty. Statistics indicate that women are more likely to be poor and at risk of hunger because of the systematic discrimination they face in health care, employment and control of assets. It has been discovered that M.F.ls has come to the recognition that empowering women and developing communities are closely connected. In view to this, this study therefore has sought to bridge the gap by establishing the role of micro finance services in empowering women and women groups economically, socially and politically in Eldama Ravine Location, Baringo County.

The objective of this study was to find out the influence of Micro Finance Services in empowering women and women groups in Eldama Ravine Location, Baringo County as well as to find out the effects that has had on women Socioeconomically. In order to accomplish the task, the methodology employed was in depth interview guide, and structured Questionnaires to collect the required data. The study was conducted in Eldama Ravine Location and the study drew its population from members of various women groups which were categorized to two strata - those financed by Micro Financing Institutions and those financed entirely from membership contribution.

The results of this study showed that Micro Finance Institutions had played a huge role in empowering women economically where women have had the chance to acquire various assets and socially, they have been recognized in the society. Some of the recommendations made are that for women to be more effective in their strategic options for socioeconomic empowerment, they need to invest the members' money in profitable business in order to increase the capital. It also recommended that the groups needed training on the management of the funds in order to make correct business decisions.