Assessing the contributory role of training of women entrepreneurs and determine whether the training addressed the problem faced by operators in the sector. a case study of Kasarani location

Abstract

The study is concerned with the effects of training which was conducted by Women Entrepreneurs for Industrial Growth (WEFIG). The common fault by many trainers and managers is that people must have training if they do not perform correctly and efficiently This study aims at establishing whether all problems can be solved through training. Could motivational and Environmental problems be addressed? If so which means? The study looks at the role of the small and Jua Kali Enterprise sector and its contributions on the Kenyan economy as well as the rationale of policy initiatives to assist women in trying to identify some of the unique problems that affect women entrepreneurs. At the same, specific gender issues are discussed in order to explore the ones that are baised to women, in addition to problems regarding women. The sub-sector of study i.e. Kenyan textile industry has been put into focus and an in depth analysis of its contribution to the economy put into sharp focus. There are various authors who have underscored the role the small scale and ,jua kali enterprise sector play in the Kenyan economy such authors include sessional paper no. 1 of 1986 and Sixth Development Plan 1989-1993 as well as paper no.2 of 1992. Jackson K Maalu (1993) highlights the policy initiatives to assist women entrepreneurs which include laws that are not gender sensitive, domestic responsibilities, men's negative attitude among others. Sessional Paper No. 2 (1992) describes the specific gender issues which offer challenges to women hence putting them on non level playing ground with men. Such problems are such as unequality, lack of collateral to secure loans, lack of time due to their multiple roles e.t.c odeta (1983) adds his voice on the problems affecting women. They are such as socio-cultural, financial, legal as well as marketing orientation which does not seem to favour women. In the textile industry though it plays a very important role as it manufactures woolen and synthetic products, it is faced with a lot of challenges from the sale of "mitumba" which has led to the closure of some textile mills as well as an adverse effect on cotton growing. After carrying a survey, UNDP, UNIDO and GOK provides training of the operators in this sector in order to help them expand their business. Descriptive survey will be the research design to be used in this study. A questionnaire was developed to collect primary data. The population of the study will be entrepreneurs practicing in textile industry around the Kasarani Location. Probabilistic sampling will be used. The data will then be collected and analyzed through descriptive statistics. The data will then be interpreted and presented in pie charts, tables etc according to common characteristics. Responses will be grouped according recurring themes.