| dc.description.abstract | Women Self-Help Groups (WSHGs) have become instrumental in driving rural development, particularly in Homa Bay County, Kenya. They offer a unique model for addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by rural communities. These grassroot organisations provide a platform for women to empower themselves through collective action, fostering collaboration, skill development, and economic independence. This paper explores the impact of WSHGs on rural development in Homa Bay County, focusing on their contributions to poverty reduction and improved access to education, healthcare, and income-generating activities. Homa Bay County was selected due to the prevalence of numerous WSHGs and various rural development projects supported by these groups. Random sampling was employed to select 5 WSHGs, each comprising 30 members. Data collection tools included interviews, focus group discussions, surveys, document analysis, and observations. Data was coded and then entered into SPSS software for analysis, utilizing descriptive statistics. Ethical considerations were undertaken to ensure that participants understood the purpose of the study and voluntarily agreed to participate. The privacy of respondents was protected as data were kept confidential. The study acknowledged and respected local cultural norms and practices while conducting interviews and surveys. The findings highlight the significant role of these groups in enhancing community resilience, promoting sustainable development, and advancing gender equality in Homa Bay County. The study established that WSHGs has established a platform for women to tackle issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and marginalisation, thereby becoming catalysts for change in rural Homa Bay County. They challenge traditional gender norms and provide women with opportunities for greater participation in economic and social spheres. The study underscores the importance of supporting and scaling up WSHGs as a strategy for rural development in Kenya | en_US |
