Economic Empowerment Research Articles

Identifying pregnant and postpartum women’s priorities for enhancing nutrition support through social needs programmes in a resource-constrained urban community in South Africa

BackgroundMalnutrition remains a pressing public health concern for mothers and children in South Africa. Despite the government’s multisectoral response, unaddressed social needs prevent some mothers getting full benefit from interventions, spanning financial planning, income stability, housing, access to government services, social support, and provision of affordable, nutritious foods. Engaging with mothers and prioritising their concerns is important if we wish to overcome obstacles to women benefiting from government nutrition interventions. This study aimed to identify the programmes that women perceived as a priority in addressing the social needs of mothers of young infants and pregnant women to enhance nutrition in a resource-constrained urban township in South Africa.MethodsA cross-sectional study employed a quantitative preference elicitation survey, administered to 210 mothers and pregnant women from five primary healthcare facilities in Soweto. The survey tool was developed with the community to identify unmet social needs and potential solutions, which were synthesised with findings from the literature. The survey described 15 programmes, grouped into three delivery levels: clinics, community, and government. Participants were required to rank programme options in two stages. First, they selected their top two programmes within each delivery level. Subsequently, they allocated stickers to indicate the strength of their preference among the top programmes across the levels. Rankings were analysed using descriptive statistics.ResultsThe highest priority was given to five programmes. Two delivered at the community level: Women’s economic empowerment groups and Job search assistance, two at the clinic level: Social needs assessment and referral, and Prescription-based food, and one at the government level: Free quality childcare. The lowest-ranked programmes were two clinic-based programmes, specifically Maternal nutrition groups and Couple antenatal education.ConclusionWomen expressed strong views about which programmes should be prioritised to support mothers and pregnant women in addressing their social needs and improving nutrition. Key areas included providing support with job searching and entrepreneurship, accessing childcare and the healthy foods recommended at clinics, as well as finding information on available community and government services. Leveraging multisectoral collaboration, aligned policy objectives, efficient public financing, and strengthened implementation capacity will be pivotal in delivering these programmes.

Economic Empowerment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Leather Industry through Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Magot Cultivation

Economic Empowerment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Leather Industry through Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Magot Cultivation

Safety Is Just the First Step: Implementing a Holistic, Survivor-Centered Program Model for Rural Partner Abuse Survivors

When domestic violence first became recognized as a social problem, services (e.g., hotlines, medical accompaniment, and emergency shelters) focused largely on meeting victims’ needs during crisis. Research documenting the process survivors go through to end abusive relationships and to establish a new, safe life shows that the challenges they face go well beyond the initial crisis. In contrast to standard practices, the Chesapeake Crisis to Self-Sufficiency Model (CCSSM) provides a continuum of holistic, survivor-centered services to support the transition from crisis to self-sufficiency. Staff interviews reveal that the CCSSM grew out of recognizing clients’ needs postcrisis. Establishing service continuums in critical areas such as housing, legal assistance, and economic empowerment creates customizable pathways for clients to follow. Administrative data for 464 survivors receiving services under the traditional model and 607 served under the CCSSM show that the CCSSM cohort worked with the agency for significantly more months and received a broader array of services. These data suggest that the comprehensive service model provides survivors with much needed services beyond the initial crisis and may ultimately increase their chances of leaving an abusive relationship. Future research should explore if the CCSSM leads to increased survivor safety and movement toward self-sufficiency and if the model decreases the odds that survivors will return to an abusive partner.

Value chain interventions for improving women's economic empowerment: A mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis: A systematic review.

Value chain interventions have become widespread throughout the international development sector over the last 20 years, and there is a need to evaluate their effectiveness in improving women's welfare across multiple dimensions. Agricultural value chains are influenced by socio-cultural norms and gender dynamics that have an impact on the distribution of resources, benefits, and access to opportunities. While women play a critical role in agriculture, they are generally confined to the least-valued parts of the value chain with the lowest economic returns, depending on the local, social and institutional contexts. The review assesses the effectiveness of approaches, strategies and interventions focused on women's engagement in agricultural value chains that lead to women's economic empowerment in low- and middle-income countries. It explores the contextual barriers and facilitators that determine women's participation in value chains and ultimately impact their effectiveness. We searched completed and on-going studies from Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection (Social Sciences Citation Index [SSCI], Science Citation Index Expanded [SCI-EXPANDED], Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science [CPCI-S], Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Social Science & Humanities [CPCI-SSH], and Emerging Sources Citation Index [ESCI]), International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, EconLit, Business Source Premier, APA PsycInfo, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane, Database of Systematic Reviews, CAB Abstracts and Sociological Abstracts. We also searched relevant websites such as Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR); the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD); AgriProFocus; the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF); Donor Committee for Enterprise Development; the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO); the International Labour Organisation (ILO); the Netherlands Development Organisation; USAID; the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation; the International Food Policy Research Institute; World Agroforestry; the International Livestock Research Institute; the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office; the British Library for Development Studies (BLDS); AGRIS; the IMMANA grant database; the 3ie impact evaluation database; Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA); The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL); the World Bank IEG evaluations; the USAID Development Data Library; Experience Clearinghouse; the proceedings of the Agriculture, Nutrition and Health Academy conference; the proceedings of the Centre for the Study of African Economies (CSAE) Conference; the proceedings of the North East Universities Development Consortium (NEUDC) Conference; and the World Bank Economic Review. The database search was conducted in March 2022, and the website search was completed in August 2022. The review includes value chain interventions evaluating the economic empowerment outcomes. The review includes effectiveness studies (experimental and non-experimental studies with a comparison group) and process evaluations. Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion, extracted data, critically appraised the studies, and synthesised findings. We found that value chain interventions are successful in improving the economic conditions of their intended beneficiaries. The interventions were found to improve women's economic outcomes such as income, assets holdings, productivity, and savings, but these effects were small in size and limited by low confidence in methodological quality. The meta-analysis suggests that this occurs more via the acquisition of skills and improved inputs, rather than through improvement in access to profitable markets. The qualitative evidence on interventions points to the persistence of cultural barriers and other constraints. Those interventions implemented in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are consistently more successful for all outcomes considered, although there are few studies conducted in other areas of the world. The review concludes that value chain interventions empower women, but perhaps to a lesser extent than expected. Economic empowerment does not immediately translate into empowerment within families and communities. Interventions should either moderate their expectations of empowerment goals, or they should be implemented in a way that ensures higher rates of participation among women and the acquisition of greater decision-making power.

Understanding Youth Vulnerability to HIV/AIDS in Uganda: Social, Economic, and Behavioural Dimensions

This review examines the multifaceted vulnerability of Ugandan youth to HIV/AIDS, emphasising the interplay of social, economic, and behavioural dimensions. Through a comprehensive analysis of HIV prevalence rates, trends, regional variations, and gender disparities, the review highlights key risk factors, including peer pressure, cultural norms, stigma, economic hardship, and substance use. It underscores the critical role of gender dynamics, with female youth facing unique challenges such as gender-based violence and economic dependence, while LGBTQ+ youth encounter compounded risks due to societal stigma and inadequate services. We also explore the disparities between rural and urban youth in access to information and services, uncovering significant barriers they face. Youth-led initiatives are critical in addressing these challenges, with peer education programs, youth-friendly services, and innovative digital campaigns all playing a crucial role in prevention efforts. We discuss barriers to youth participation, such as stigma, cultural norms, and educational gaps, and discuss strategies to overcome them, like culturally sensitive education and improved access to resources. We highlight the role of schools and educational institutions, emphasising the importance of integrating comprehensive sex education, school-based health services, and extracurricular activities to foster awareness and preventive behaviours. The review also highlights the importance of youth advocacy and leadership in shaping inclusive policies and driving effective interventions. We present economic empowerment strategies, including skills training andmicrofinance, as complementary to health-focused efforts by addressing socioeconomic vulnerabilities. The review concludes by advocating for a holistic approach that combines education, economic empowerment, gender-sensitive interventions, and collaborative partnerships among government, NGOs, civil society, and the private sector to effectively reduce HIV prevalence and improve the well-being of Ugandan youth. Keywords: Youth, HIV/AIDS, Uganda, social, economic, and behavioural dimensions

Can digital technology promote market participation among smallholder farmers?

Abstract Digital technology holds significant potential for enhancing business efficiency in agricultural marketing. However, empirical research on the use of digital technology among smallholder farmers engaged in staple crop marketing in Sub-Saharan Africa remains limited. Recognizing the pivotal role of digital technology in agriculture, this study aims to analyse and synthesize existing knowledge regarding the impact of mobile phones on market participation among smallholder farmers. Through a comprehensive analysis, we seek to provide a robust understanding that can inform policies and programs aimed at enhancing smallholder market integration. To achieve this objective, we collected cross-sectional data from 360 farmers in southeast Nigeria and implemented a double hurdle model to analyse market participation decisions and the extent of farmers’ involvement in staple crop markets. In addition to traditional econometric methods, we employed propensity score matching to further investigate the impact of mobile phone ownership on market participation. Our analysis revealed that ICT tools, particularly mobile phones and radios, significantly influence both the decision and intensity of market participation among smallholder farmers. Specifically, mobile phones were found to play a crucial role in facilitating access to market pricing information and disseminating knowledge on improved production methods. Given the volatility of farm prices, the timely dissemination of market information through mobile phones is essential for farmers to make informed decisions. With a high percentage of mobile phone ownership and substantial investments in mobile networks in Nigeria, the digitalization of extension services and marketing information delivery systems could catalyse rapid improvements in agribusiness and marketing. This shift towards digital platforms has the potential to address information asymmetry, particularly among smallholder farmers, thereby fostering greater market integration and economic empowerment within rural communities.

Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) and HIV/AIDS Prevention among Youth in East Africa

Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is a pivotal strategy for reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence among youth in East Africa, where the growing young population presents significant challenges for effective prevention. This review examines the role of CSE in equipping young people with essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes to make informed decisions about their sexual health. We explore the importance of culturally relevant and evidence-based curricula, the impact of teacher training programmes, and the integration of CSE into both school and community settings. We highlight the crucial role of youth-friendly health services in providing accessible and confidential care and identify peer education and youth-led initiatives as key strategies for engaging and empowering young people in HIV prevention. We examine the role of economic empowerment strategies, such as microfinance and vocational training, in reducing HIV vulnerability. We discuss gender-sensitive approaches to address the unique needs of different genders, including LGBTQ+ youth. The review also explores the potential of innovative technologies and digital solutions, such as mobile health applications and social media campaigns, to enhance HIV prevention efforts. The review emphasises community engagement and support systems, policy advocacy, and research as essential components for a comprehensive response. By integrating these diverse strategies, the review underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to effectively address HIV/AIDS among youth in East Africa, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes and achieve sustainable prevention goals. Keywords: Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), HIV/AIDS, Youth, East Africa

Feminist Ideologies at Work: Culture, Collectivism, and Entrepreneurship among Disadvantaged Women in India

This study explores the role of feminist ideologies in enabling entrepreneurship among disadvantaged women in societies entrenched in structures of patriarchy. The study draws on evidence from Lijjat, a women’s cooperative in India. Through careful consideration of the context and relations in which marginalized women were able to initiate, develop, and successfully grow a business, results draw two key conclusions. First, pragmatist feminist ideologies are particularly supportive of women’s economic activities in a patriarchal context. Second, ideological influences on women’s entrepreneurship exist both at the individual level (motivation) and at the collective level (organizational practices). Studying the intersection of these tiers enables a better understanding of how women’s entrepreneurship at the grassroots level can be supported in male-dominated cultures. HIGHLIGHTS Patriarchal norms limit disadvantaged women’s entrepreneurial opportunities in India. Lijjat, a women’s cooperative, provides insight into the role of feminist ideologies in empowering women. Pragmatist feminist ideologies encourage women to challenge traditional norms through entrepreneurship. These ideologies shape both individual motivations and collective organizational practices at Lijjat. Supporting women’s cooperatives can improve women’s economic participation and empowerment.

The lived experiences of South African Black accountants within the framework of the chartered accountancy profession sector code

PurposeThis study investigates the progress of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act 2003, and its associated Chartered Accountancy Profession Sector Code. In doing so, we explore why B-BBEE affirmative action has not yet achieved the Code's representational intentions, including systemic subtleties inhibiting this success.Design/methodology/approachUsing semi-structured interviews, we explore the lived experiences of Black aspirant Chartered Accountants (CAs) undertaking articles in global audit firms. The experiences are thematically analysed, embracing a comprehensive theoretical approach that encompasses professional and social closure, as well as boundary work, to adequately understand why affirmative transformational endeavours persistently face uphill tasks. The utilisation of multifaceted theorisation is deemed essential for a more nuanced portrayal of the intricacies inherent in the CA profession in South Africa.FindingsThe narratives presented by Black aspiring CAs unveil a complex web of exclusionary practices entrenched in institutionalised historical, professional, and social contexts. The multifaceted nature of closures, symbolised by racial, cultural, and linguistic factors, significantly impacts the experiences of Black trainees. The findings furthermore show that deliberate intervention beyond compliance with the Government’s framework is necessary for meaningful transformation.Practical implicationsThe paper brings to the fore the current lived experiences of underrepresented Black CAs in global auditing firms. In doing so, these firms are empowered with incremental knowledge of the prevailing challenges and can thus make tangible improvements towards authentic transformation. Additionally, the results help in tracking the advancements made through affirmative action, acting as a feedback loop for future developments in transformation policy.Originality/valueContributing to the critical accounting literature, our study extends scholarship on the barriers faced by CAs and the limitations in their capacity to challenge these obstacles within global audit firms. We offer practical policy-focused recommendations that, if implemented, can address the complex socio-political realities obstructing the success of affirmative action. By sharing first-hand accounts, our study aims to empower auditing firms and other related stakeholders with actionable insights, enabling them to improve genuine inclusivity and foster equitable representation in the accounting profession.

An Assessment of the Role of Economic Empowerment Schemes on Poverty Reduction among Youth and Women Groups: A Case of the Arusha Region, Tanzania

An Assessment of the Role of Economic Empowerment Schemes on Poverty Reduction among Youth and Women Groups: A Case of the Arusha Region, Tanzania

Role of Handicraft in Tourism Promotion and Economic Empowerment in Nigeria

The paper examined the role of traditional handicraft in tourism promotion and economic empowerment in Nigeria. The paper highlighted concept of handicraft and craftsmanship. The types of Nigerian traditional handicrafts; the cultural significance of arts and handicrafts were highlighted. The potentials of traditional handicrafts in tourism development and economic empowerment such as job creation, revenue generation; and increase in foreign exchange earnings to the country were established based on the revenue literature. Challenges in the development of arts and craft industries in Nigeria and strategies to overcome them were examined. The reviewed literature established that handicrafts are essential parts of tourists’ experience in a destination. It was revealed that traditional handicrafts play significant roles in preserving the cultural heritage of a region as it symbolizes cultural identity. The reviewed literature indicated that traditional handicrafts attracts tourists to a destination as they are interested in purchasing crafts with symbolic meanings, as souvenirs to take to their homeland as memory of the place visited. Handicrafts also has the potential for job creation by providing source of income to those who engage in producing them, and also increase the foreign exchange earnings of the country as the foreign tourist purchase them. However, in Nigeria the performance of the arts and handicraft sector is far below its potentials due to the various challenges faced by the sector which among others include: lack of funding and non-financial support if form of policies by the government and its agencies to favor the growth of the sector; lack of collaboration between the handicraft producers and stakeholders in the tourism sector on product design to meet the market demands (needs of the tourists, poor marketing strategies which result in low patronage of arts and craft products; and scarcity strategies to overcome the challenges were also suggested which among others includes: Government granting both financial and non-financial support in form of funding and policies to favor the development of the arts and handicraft sector; collaboration and synergy between the art/craft sector and tourism sector for mutual benefits and promote cultural tourism, development of art/craft centres where artisans of the same trade can network and improve the quality of their products and also form co-operative society to make it easier to approach government for financial and non-financial help; and also develop marketing strategies for quick and profitable sales of their products both locally and globally.

Analysis of Perceptions of Socioeconomic Determinants of Gender-Based Violence in Africa: A Multilevel Analysis

This article presents a multi-level analysis of the determinants of gender-based violence in Africa using a subjective approach. The study aims to examine the factors that influence gender violence and to understand their role in African society. The results highlight individual determinants such as poverty and the experience of harassment, as well as social and political determinants such as the presence of government and the police. Economic analysis of the results reveals the importance of combating poverty and promoting women's economic empowerment in reducing gender violence in Africa. The economic implications also highlight the role of the media and social networks in raising awareness of this problem. In conclusion, this article contributes to the understanding of the determinants of gender violence in Africa and calls for strategic interventions to prevent and reduce this worrying phenomenon.

Maggot Cultivation: Qur'anic Economic Empowerment with Environmental Insight

Maggot Cultivation: Qur'anic Economic Empowerment with Environmental Insight

Maggot Cultivation: Qur'anic Economic Empowerment with Environmental Insight

Environmental problems and unemployment are currently serious discussion. This is proven by the piling up of garbage as well as the high unemployment rate, especially in Banten Province. These two problems able to overcome by utilizing decomposer organism that have been created by Allah SWT, as we know is black soldier fly (BSF) or maggot. Unfortunately, the use of maggot to minimize waste and unemployment has not run optimally. The research method is using descriptive qualitative method. The information obtained through observation. Interviews, literature studies and documenting related to maggot cultivation. This research was conducted to overcome the problems of accumulating waste, it can also create jobs for the community through maggot cultivation. Based on the result of this research, cultivating maggot can open jobs and care on the environment. With the discovery that maggot cultivation can create jobs, it is hoped that one of the SDGs goals; decent work and economic growth that can be fulfilled. Besides that, it can minimize piles of waste, especially organic waste.

Economic empowerment of women domestic workers: Role of digital financial services

Background: The impact of Digital Financial Services (DFS) on women’s economic empowerment (WEE) has aroused the attention of practitioners and scholars over the past decade. However, its influence on the WEE of women domestic workers has largely been overlooked, particularly in marginalised and vulnerable communities.Objectives: This study investigated the DFS that women domestic workers use and how they enhance the economic empowerment of women domestic workers.Method: The study utilised qualitative data from in-depth interviews with women domestic workers (n = 40) in Nigeria. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified three themes, namely, financial security, privacy and agency, that constitute pathways to women domestic workers’ economic empowerment.Results: The findings indicate that the availability and user-friendliness of DFS play a significant role in promoting the extracted themes among women domestic workers, thereby enhancing their reputation, relevance in the affairs of the family and overall growth and development. The study indicated that ownership of a mobile phone is a foundational element that drives DFS, which powers WEE.Conclusion: Policymakers, employers and relevant stakeholders should acknowledge this importance and strive to establish mechanisms that enhance and safeguard the financial rights of domestic workers.Contribution: This study contributes to the ongoing endeavours of policymakers, governments and researchers in comprehending the expanding realm of women’s empowerment by exploring the potential of DFS as a viable means to empower all women and girls.

A Bank for the People: The People’s Savings Bank and Community Building in Philadelphia, 1907–1917

ABSTRACT This article examines how Black Americans used Black economic nationalism to create community through the formation and support of The People’s Savings Bank in early twentieth-century Philadelphia. Through its lending practices, The People’s Savings Bank offered Black Philadelphians credit opportunities that allowed them to circumvent the Jim Crow practices of the period. Furthermore, the article argues that the success of the bank was the result of inter-gender mutualism by a community determined to achieve self-determination through economic empowerment. Banking in Black Philadelphia went beyond creating a successful moneyed class, it was about crafting an oasis for a people besieged by White supremacist structures.

Experiences of community reintegration after obstetric fistula repair at Jean Paul 2 hospital, Conakry, Guinea.

The study explored women's experiences of their community reintegration process after surgical repair of obstetric fistula at Jean Paul 2 Hospital in Conakry, Guinea. The study examined how lived experiences of the disease impacted on the community reintegration of treated women. Using a qualitative research methodology, ten women participated after giving informed consent. Semi- structured interviews, lasting an average of 30 to 60 minutes were guided by an interview guide. The main themes covered were experiences with the disease, perceived social support and reintegration into the community. According to the participants, delays in obstetric care were the main cause of obstetric fistula. Socio- economic, cultural and medical factors such as early marriage, lack of education and poverty contributed to these delays. Even after surgical repair, women continued to endure the physical and psychosocial consequences of the disease, exposing them to stigma, discrimination and even rejection within the community. Study participants also reported a lack of social support. The little support perceived by these women concerned food and medical needs. This made the women dependent on their families. Reintegration into the community also proved difficult due to the persistent silence and stigma surrounding their situation. The study results highlight the complexity of the challenges faced by women with obstetric fistula in their journey towards integration. Effective management of obstetric fistula requires a holistic approach victims, their communities, health professionals and decision-makers in solving this problem. So, to improve women's reintegration after treatment for obstetric fistula, it is vital to raise awareness of the causes and consequences of the disease among the women concerned and their families, and to provide rapid access to emergency obstetric care, reinforce social support and set up economic empowerment programs.

Jazz music: From black pride to political consciousness to social change in the United States

African Americans have been marginalised, discriminated against, and excluded from American society for centuries. First as slaves, but later when they gained emancipation, they remained relegated, differentiated, and discounted, in a range of areas, including in the political and economic spheres. Music has been a means to promote their greater inclusion in American society, drawing together and uniting all Americans through its power. While there have been links drawn between music and the African American struggle for equality, there has not been sufficient focus on the pivotal role that specifically jazz music has played in this regard. Jazz particularly has been a vehicle for promoting Black pride, political consciousness, and social change. This article argues that jazz has had a major effect on African American culture, society, and experience. Analysing the works of legendary jazz musicians James Brown, John Coltrane, Billie Holiday, and The Temptations, this article shows that jazz is not only as a catalyst for, but a driving force in, the fight for political freedom, as well as for economic empowerment, which is arguably still ongoing today.

Critical Study on Bekerja Program Implementation as Economic Empowerment: Sharia Economic Perspective

The research aims to assess BEKERJA program's effectiveness in reducing poverty in Salutambung Village by providing farm animals. It evaluates the program's impact on economic empowerment, food security, and its alignment with Islamic economic principles, while addressing challenges like resource misallocation and dependency. The research methodology involves qualitative analysis to evaluate the program's impact in Salutambung Village through interviews and observations as field research. Data collection includes examining economic empowerment, food security, collaboration with Social Affairs Department, and alignment with Islamic economic principles. The study concludes that the BEKERJA program effectively reduces poverty by providing livestock to needy households, enhancing economic empowerment and food security. The program's collaboration with the Social Affairs Department has improved community welfare and economic conditions. However, some social assistance programs, including BEKERJA, face challenges such as resource misallocation and lack of technical support. The research lacks analysis that could contribute to further improving BEKERJA program

Analisis Peran Keuangan Syariah dalam Pembangunan Ekonomi

The role of Shariah finance in economic development has been the subject of increasing research and policy discourse. Although empirical evidence of the sharia financial impact remains varied and contextual, sharia finance has the potential to make a positive contribution to economic growth, financial stability, and social well-being. Nevertheless, there are still significant challenges and complexities in realizing the Sharia financial potential as a catalyst for economic development. The study aims to explain the multi-faceted contribution of Islamic finance to economic development. In this research the method used is qualitative method. A systematic review of literature is carried out to build a theoretical foundation, conceptual framework, and empirical evidence related to the role of Shariah finance in economic development. The review includes scientific articles, books, reports, and policy documents from a variety of disciplinary perspectives, including economics, finance, Islamic studies, and development studies. The results of this study conclude that Islamic finance plays a role in promoting financial inclusion, encouraging investment in sustainable infrastructure and business, enhancing stability through risk-sharing mechanisms, and promoting ethical and socially responsible financial practices. By providing financial products and services in line with Sharia principles, Sharia financial institutions can meet the unique financial needs of various segments of society, thereby helping to reduce gaps in access to finance and enhance economic empowerment