Background of the Study
Market women have traditionally played a pivotal role in the indigenous economic systems of Ikot Abasi Local Government, Akwa Ibom State, serving as key agents in trade, resource distribution, and community development. Their entrepreneurial activities, deeply rooted in local culture and social networks, have sustained both household economies and broader market dynamics. In recent years, shifts in economic policies and the advent of modern commercial practices have influenced the traditional roles of market women (Eket, 2023). While these changes offer new opportunities for growth, they also pose challenges to established indigenous economic structures. Recent research indicates that market women continue to be central to economic resilience and social stability (Udo, 2024). However, evolving market forces and external economic pressures require a re-examination of their roles (Inyang, 2025). This study investigates the contributions of market women to indigenous economic systems and explores strategies for enhancing their economic empowerment. Progress persists.
Statement of the Problem
Market women in Ikot Abasi Local Government face significant challenges due to evolving commercial practices and economic pressures, which threaten traditional indigenous economic systems. The shift towards modern trade practices and competition from large commercial entities has altered the roles and influence of market women (Eket, 2023). This transition has implications for community-based economic structures and the preservation of indigenous market practices (Udo, 2024). The diminishing traditional roles may undermine local economic stability and cultural heritage (Inyang, 2025). The study seeks to identify these challenges and propose measures to empower market women within indigenous economic frameworks. Innovative economic policies are essential for empowering traditional market women.
Objectives of the Study:
To investigate the role of market women in indigenous economic systems.
To assess challenges faced by market women in the evolving commercial landscape.
To propose strategies for enhancing the economic empowerment of market women.
Research Questions:
What is the role of market women in indigenous economic systems in Ikot Abasi?
What challenges do market women face in adapting to modern trade practices?
How can market women be empowered to sustain traditional economic systems?
Research Hypotheses:
Market women significantly contribute to the resilience of indigenous economic systems.
Modern commercial practices negatively impact the traditional roles of market women.
Empowerment strategies can enhance the economic participation of market women.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the vital role of market women in indigenous economic systems, offering insights into their contributions and challenges. The research informs economic policies and community development strategies aimed at empowering market women and preserving indigenous economic practices (Eket, 2023). Ultimately, the findings contribute to sustainable economic development and cultural preservation in Ikot Abasi Local Government.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to investigating the role of market women in indigenous economic systems in Ikot Abasi Local Government, Akwa Ibom State. It focuses on economic contributions, challenges, and empowerment strategies, excluding other market dynamics.
Definitions of Terms:
Market Women: Female traders engaged in local commerce and traditional economic activities.
Indigenous Economic Systems: Traditional market practices rooted in cultural and communal interactions.
Economic Empowerment: The process of increasing financial independence and market participation.
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