A Study on Small and Medium Enterprises, Women Empowerment and Poverty Reduction in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in women empowerment and poverty reduction among households in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. Specifically, it aimed to: evaluate the impact of SMEs on women empowerment in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State and assess the impact of SMEs on poverty reduction in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of this study comprises women engaged in SMEs (including trading, agro-processing, craft, and services) across the five LGAs in the Northern Senatorial District, as well as household heads in the same region. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed in the study. The sample size for this study was two hundred (200) women engaged in SMEs. The main instrument for data collection was the questionnaire, and primary data were analyzed using the Chi-square Statistical Technique. Findings from the Chi-square analyses revealed that there is a significant contribution of SMEs to women empowerment in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. Further findings indicated that there is a significant contribution of SMEs to poverty reduction in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. Based on the findings of the study it is recommended that government and financial institutions should expand access to low-interest loans, grants, and credit facilities specifically targeted at women-owned SMEs. Also, regular training programs in business management, digital marketing, record keeping, and financial literacy should be made available, particularly in rural areas. More so, government should invest in rural infrastructure such as roads, electricity, storage facilities, and internet connectivity to support SME activities and improve market access for products and services. Furthermore, government and private sectors should partner with NGOs and international development organizations to scale up successful SME interventions and promote inclusive development programs targeting women, among others.