Volume 4, Number 1

Impact of Self-Help Group Projects on Women’S Livelihoods in A Peri-Urban Settlement in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe

  Authors

Mpofu Molyn¹, Hove Tichakunda² and Phuti Fortune³, ¹University of Eswatini, Luyengo, Eswatini and ^2,3Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic, Gwanda, Zimbabwe

  Abstract

Women empowerment is considered an essential component of international development and poverty reduction. Most women in Zimbabwe are involved in Self-help Group projects to enhance their economic growth. The purpose of this case study was to establish the impact of Self-help projects on the livelihoods of women at Esibomvu. Purposive sampling was used to select 50 women, 3 Community Development Officers in the area. Mixed methods research using both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection was employed. Data were collected using interviews, questionnaires and focus group discussions. The findings of the study showed that Self-help Group projects transformed the women’s livelihoods, their families and communities. The study concluded that it is important to involve women in the economic development of the nation. The research recommends that women vary their projects so that there is a wide range of commodities and products to minimise on competition.

  Keywords

Impact, Self-Help Groups, Peri-urban settlement, Livelihoods, Community development.