Examining women’s participation in formal businesses in Nakawa Division, Kampala District

Abstract

The purpose of the study aims to examine the factors that influence the participation of women in formal business in Nakawa Division, Kampala District. The study was guided with objectives; to identify factors that influence the participation of women in formal business in Nakawa Division, Kampala District, to examine the challenges encountered by women during participation in formal business in in Nakawa Division, Kampala District, to examine organizational mechanisms and strategies for enhancing women in formal businesses in Nakawa Division, Kampala District. The study utilized descriptive survey design and made use of stratified random sampling to get a study sample. The study highlighted the significant role of cultural factors, family responsibilities, financial resources, education, childcare, government policies, professional networks, infrastructure, and mentorship in shaping women's engagement in formal business activities. These factors collectively contributed to the complex landscape of women's participation in the business sector. The study also shaded light on the challenges faced by women in formal business in Nakawa Division. These challenges include limited access to funding, cultural and societal norms, resource constraints, administrative complexities, market access barriers, work-family balance, and a perceived lack of adequate training opportunities. Understanding these challenges is crucial for designing targeted interventions that address the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the research identified various organizational mechanisms and strategies that can enhance women's participation in formal businesses. These included collaborative networks, tailored training programs, mentorship initiatives, streamlined regulations, women's leadership roles, collaborative partnerships, and women-led cooperatives. These mechanisms provide a roadmap for creating a supportive ecosystem that empowers women in the formal business sector. From the findings, the following recommendations were suggested such as; the government and policy makers should organize awareness campaigns so that women get sensitized on women leadership so that they are able to take top positions. The government should also establish women business offices within proximity locations and employ enough staff in the division office who will deal with training women on how to borrow and repay loans. Women entrepreneurs should also be sensitized on the need to follow legal policies that govern them as women in formal business. Further research should also be done on the influence of culture on obtaining and managing loans by women in formal business.