The Effect of Widowhood on the Income Generation and Well-Being of Rural Women in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The Study examined the effect of widowhood on the Well-being of rural women in Rivers State, Nigeria. Specifically the objectives were: to determine the livelihood activities of rural women in Rivers State, and ascertain the level of income from such livelihood activation and determine their level of satisfaction and wellbeing. The sample population used for the study was 300 rural women (155 widows and 145 non-widows) sampled using multiple sampling techniques. Primary data were gathered using structure questionnaire in the pattern of Likert 4–point rating scale of Very High, high, low and Very Low and recorded responses during Focus Group Discussions (FGD). To elicit responses in answer to objectives 2 and 3. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean and Standard Deviation while the hypothesis were tested using Z–test and Pearson Product Moment Correlative coefficient. The findings include: that majority of the rural women earned their living from varied livelihood activities, with low level of income, too meager to satisfy their basic needs. That non-widow enjoy better livelihood than widows due to all manners of support from their spouses; which widows do not enjoy. Also that widowhood limits the livelihood opportunities of widows, reduce their income earning capacity, thereby negatively affecting their well-being. It was therefore, recommended that rural women should be economically empowered through deliberate policies of government at all levels to adequately prepare them for the challenges of widowhood.

Key words: Effect, widowhood, well being, Rural Women.