Analysis of the effects of access to credit facilities on economic empowerment of rural women: a case study of Nama sub-county, Mukono District

Abstract

Women in Uganda today constitute 50.24% of the overall population with the biggest percentage of the leaving in rural areas of Uganda carrying out farming which is the primary activity of the economy of this country. Unfortunately, women are marginalized and have limited control over the production assets and decision making. Promoting gender equality and equity is not only fair but also makes good economic sense. With empowerment of women, Uganda stands to gain from both higher economic growth as well as development engine of the economic growth of Uganda. This research paper therefore analyses the effects of access to credit facilities on economic empowerment of women in rural areas of Nama sub-county in Mukono District. A total of 322 women residents in Mukono District were interviewed and the study utilized both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis to investigate the significance of the factors that influence economic empowerment of women. A logistic regression model was employed to investigate the relationship of some factors to women economic empowerment, which was measured b access to credit facilities. The findings reveal that farming as an occupation has a significant influence on access to land. On contrary education level and membership to women association have a significant influence on access to loans. In view of the above findings, the study recommends the need for detailed socioeconomic data on women at all levels, in order to publicize their needs and priorities so that policy planners and NGOs plan effectively to assist women, more advocacy for women associations in any programs or policies so as to strengthen women position and Government and NGOs should consciously strengthen the organizational capabilities of women association by assisting them through refresher training at all levels starting with those in rural areas of Nama Sub county.