Abstract:
The study was conducted in Nturumeti location, Narok County to determine some of the factors hindering women participation in rural economic development. Specific objectives of the study were: to identify how illiteracy affects women participation in rural economic development, to find out how culture is a hindrance in women participation in rural economic development and to find out how lack of access to resources hinders women from participating in rural economic development. The study comprised 50 women those involved in income generating activities and those not involved. Data was collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using MS Excel. The data was analyzed using tables, charts and bar graphs for easier understanding. Study findings showed that majority of the women were illiterate and they were not involved in any economic activities especially the married and those involved mainly practiced farming. The study found that factors influencing Maasai women participation in rural economic development in the area include marital status, education background, household size and lack of access to property and resources and cultural barriers. Majority of the respondents were willing to be involved in IGAs if an enabling environment was created, that included removing the cultural barriers, entrepreneurial training, getting loans from financial institutions and SACCOs and establishment of women groups. The study concluded that Maasai women are willing and they have the potential to carry out economic activities which will be beneficial not only to their house holds but also to the entire community thus participating in the economic development of the community. The study recommends the need to create enabling environment that ought to improve the involvement of women in income generating activities.
