The impact of credit accessibility on women welfare: A case study of BRAC (Busia branch)

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to examine the impact of credit accessibility on women welfare. Women in BRAC, Busia branch form the case study of the investigation. The study is guided by the following specific objectives; To assess the forms of credit accessibility used at BRAC; To determine the levels of women welfare in BRAC; and To establish the relationship between credit accessibility and Women welfare.

A cross sectional survey design is used in the study. Women clients and staff of BRAC constitute the study population. A sample of 45 respondents is involved in the study. Data is collected using questionnaires and interview guides. It is analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Study findings indicate that credit from BRAC is accessible to the women clients both on group and individual basis. The study findings further indicate that the women in BRAC have a modest life; they operate income generating businesses and have the capacity to fend for their families as well as afford taking their children to school. A positive relationship that is significant at 0.05 level is established between credit accessibility and welfare of women in BRAC. The study concludes that increase in credit accessibility has multiplier effect on women through increasing on their propensity to invest, to save, engage in income generating activities and to live modest lives. The study recommends the need for further training of women on making investment decisions and making of regular follow ups on the projects of women to ensure that they are sustainable, among others.