Psychosocial Challenges Facing Female Entrepreneurs in Rural Informal Sector and Their Coping Mechanisms: A Case Study of Gucha District, Kenya

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine some of the psychosocial challenges facing the growing number of female entrepreneurs in informal sector entrepreneurs in Kenya and strategies they use to minimize these challenges. A case study of Gucha District in Kenya was conduced. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed to collect data. A sample of 150 respondents was selected. Two data collection techniques were used: structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The information gathered was analyzed using statistical package of social sciences. Findings of the study showed that some of psychosocial challenges facing female informal sector entrepreneurs rural areas in Gucha district include financial stress, depression, social isolation and poor relationships with their friends, relatives, in and workmates. The study also established that demographic profile influences female entrepreneurs’ ability to cope with the challenges. The respondents recommended that the government and communities should create secure conditions for them to cope.

Keywords: Psychosocial challenges; female entrepreneurs; rural informal sector; Kenya.