Effects of training on women-run micro and small enterprises In Kawangware Division, Nairobi County

Abstract

The study examined effects of training on women-run micro and small enterprises in Kawangware Division, Nairobi County. The study was guided by Bishop (1994) theory of training through empowerment based on the human capital theory the study objectives included establishing the nature of training offered to women who runs MSEs, the effects of training on women-run MSEs, gender related challenges that hamper the growth of women-run MSEs, and responsive strategies for training of women. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and targeted four women groups trained by four MFls that operate in the area. The study used questionnaires and in-depth interview schedules as data collection instruments. The data was classified into different categories through coding and tabulation where descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables and percentages were used to present quantitative data. The qualitative data was presented thematically. As a result of training women-run businesses had become more profitable, had increased sales, became easier to manage and had more customers. In regard to gender-related challenges facing women-owned MSEs, the results revealed that most women entrepreneurs lack business management skills, capital as a result of gender roles. The study recommended that married women should be given support by their spouses in respect of finances, motivational encouragement, advice and actual involvement in the running of business. Access to credit by women entrepreneurs at the level of micro and small-scale enterprises, should be facilitated through innovative programs and financing arrangements that go beyond the conventional approaches; which require collateral and capital among other conditional ties. A major goal should be to promote the social and economic empowerment of women, as they constitute a vulnerable social category that is critical in sustainable development endeavours. Given that the study was confined to women running MSEs in Kawangware Division in Nairobi County, it is recommended similar studies be replicated targeting men and the youth entrepreneurs, to assess ways in which training influence their MSEs.