Factors affecting the management of women groups' micro and small enterprises in Kakamega District, Kenya

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to highlight the main factors that affect the management of the WGs' Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in Kakamega District and Africa in general.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a descriptive research design. This is because the study was concerned about a univariate question in which the researchers asked about the size, form distribution and existence of factors affecting management of the Women Groups' (WGs) MSEs. The study created a profile on variables affecting WGs' MSEs through collection of data and the tabulation of the frequencies on the research variables and their interaction. Systematic random sampling was used to select the sample. This technique resulted in a sample size of 310 respondents distributed as follows: 95 WGs leaders; 143 group and community members; and 72 donor, government and non‐governmental agents.FindingsThe study found that the factors that affect management of WGs' MSEs could be categorised as financial, administrative, managerial, technical, political, traditional and cultural. The WGs lack skills in these areas, which adversely affects the MSEs. The study then calls for full support of WGs' MSEs by all those involved in one way or another, remembering that “for women, a common theme cuts across the struggles … whether at independence, liberation movement, the New International Economic Order, or development, women have learned that the change, reforms and revolutions were not intended for them”.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to the data obtained through questionnaires and interviews which were descriptive and qualitative in nature. A study that uses both quantitative and qualitative data is recommended.Originality/valueThe study is ground‐breaking in terms of looking at the management of WGs' MSEs in Kenya.