Background of the study
Women’s cooperative societies have emerged as pivotal instruments in promoting economic empowerment among women, especially in regions where access to formal financial resources is limited. In Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State, these cooperatives provide a platform for women to pool resources, access credit, and engage in income-generating activities. Through mutual support and collective bargaining, women’s cooperatives have contributed to improved financial independence, social solidarity, and community development. Recent literature has highlighted that economic empowerment initiatives, such as cooperative societies, play a significant role in reducing gender disparities and fostering entrepreneurship (Ighodalo, 2023; Eze, 2024). These cooperatives not only offer financial services but also serve as centers for skills training, business development, and social networking, which together enhance the economic resilience of women. This study examines the role of women’s cooperative societies in Esan Central, investigating how they contribute to economic empowerment and sustainable community development. The research integrates both qualitative and quantitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and challenges of these cooperative models (Omoruyi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the apparent benefits of women’s cooperative societies in promoting economic empowerment in Esan Central, many challenges persist that undermine their potential. Women participating in these cooperatives often face issues such as limited access to capital, inadequate training, and socio-cultural barriers that restrict full economic participation. Additionally, the lack of government support and formal financial structures further exacerbates these challenges. As a result, the impact of these cooperatives on economic empowerment remains uneven and underdocumented. There is a need for a systematic investigation into the operational dynamics, benefits, and constraints of women’s cooperative societies in this region. This study seeks to address these issues by evaluating the role of these cooperatives in facilitating economic independence and identifying strategies to overcome the challenges they face. The outcomes will provide insights that can inform policy interventions and support mechanisms tailored to empower women economically (Omoregie, 2023).
Objectives of the study
To assess the impact of women’s cooperative societies on economic empowerment in Esan Central.
To identify the challenges faced by women in these cooperatives.
To propose strategies to enhance the effectiveness of women’s cooperative societies.
Research questions
How do women’s cooperative societies contribute to economic empowerment in Esan Central?
What are the main challenges hindering the success of these cooperatives?
What strategies can be implemented to improve the economic outcomes of women’s cooperative societies?
Research Hypotheses
Women’s cooperative societies significantly improve economic empowerment among women in Esan Central.
Socio-cultural and financial barriers negatively affect the performance of these cooperatives.
Targeted support programs can enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of women’s cooperative societies.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides insights into the transformative role of women’s cooperative societies in promoting economic empowerment. The findings will benefit policymakers, development agencies, and community leaders by offering evidence-based recommendations for strengthening these cooperatives and supporting women’s economic independence (Igbinovia, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to assessing the role of women’s cooperative societies in economic empowerment in Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State. It does not consider other empowerment initiatives or extend to regions outside Esan Central, and relies on data collected from local cooperative members and community records.
Definitions of terms
Women’s cooperative societies: Organized groups of women who pool resources and collaborate on income-generating activities.
Economic empowerment: The process through which individuals gain the ability to make economic decisions and improve their financial status.
Cooperative model: A business model based on collective ownership and democratic decision-making.
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