Assessing the role of micro businesses on women’s socio-economic empowerment: a case of women in micro business in South Kilema-Moshi Rural District Tanzania

This study was conducted in South Kilema Moshi Rural of Kilimanjaro Tanzania, investigated the role of micro businesses on women’s socio-economic empowerment. South Kilema is one of the underexplored areas in the context of micro businesses and its influence on women’s socio-economic empowerment. The main objective was to assess how micro businesses contributes to women’s financial independence, social status and overall wellbeing. To achieve this, the research explore the socio-economic motives that drive women to engage in micro businesses, evaluate the impact of these enterprises on women socio economic development, and analyse the influence of government policies and support programs on women’s empowerment in the context of micro entrepreneurship, and last the study looked at the socio-economic barriers that women face in their entrepreneurial activities. The qualitative approach was used to collect data through semi structured interview with women in micro businesses, community leaders, government officials and male spouses. The findings indicate that micro business is essential for enhancing women to achieve financial independence, improve their social standing and their overall wellbeing. However, there are still some barriers which hinder women’s entrepreneurial activities such as limited access to resources, inadequate supporting programs, and socio-cultural constraints. In order to address these issues and support equitable and long-term economic growth for women in micro businesses, the study suggests targeted interventions that addresses the unique challenges faced by women in microbusinesses including improved access to financial resources, entrepreneurial education and development of infrastructure.