Philip Were’s research while affiliated with Mount Kenya University and other places

Women play a crucial role in developing the economy, but their contribution has been negatively affected by limited financial services access. The study investigated the role of self-help groups (SHGs) in promoting women's economic empowerment in Kibra, Nairobi County, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The sample size was 108 SHGs as respondents. The study utilized primary means of data collection by using questionnaires, key informant interviews (KIIs) and focused group discussions (FGDs). The findings showed that SHGs utilize group savings to expand credit access to vulnerable women in the sub-county. Leadership experience in SGHs has changed women's ability to make major decisions in their lives and improve confidence. SHGs have positively boosted the economy by empowering women and diversifying income sources. The study recommends periodical training on leadership and income-generating activities. The government needs to offer market and build infrastructure for products produced by groups' projects and provide subsidized loans to SHGs. Great emphasis should be put on women education and creating awareness while encouraging young women to join SHGs to start earning their incomes at early ages and making savings for their projects.