International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science
Vol. 4 No. 5 (2023): International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science (Sep

Challenges of Women Entrepreneurship and Empowerment in South Africa: Evidence from Rural Areas

NHLEKO, Mary-Ann Nokulunga (Unknown)
MSOMI, Thabiso Sthembiso (Unknown)
OGUNSOLA, Sijuwade Adedayo (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Sep 2023

Abstract

This study aims to identify impediments to expanding women-owned businesses in rural areas of South Africa. The study used a quantitative research method to collect data. The study concentrated on 250 female business owners in the rural communities of Hluhluwe, Ulundi, and Eshowe in northern KZN. The study found that the main obstacles to expanding women-owned businesses in rural areas were financial constraints, a lack of education, and inadequate infrastructure. However, these difficulties experienced by women business owners in rural South Africa can be conquered. Overcoming these obstacles could empower women entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in rural areas, thus reducing poverty and enhancing the living standards of rural communities. Based on these findings, the study recommends various interventions, such as alternative financing models, targeted education and training programs, and infrastructure development, to support the growth of women-owned enterprises in rural areas. Future research should examine additional issues such as cultural and social hurdles, a lack of access to markets and information, and legal and regulatory restrictions that impede the establishment of women-owned businesses in rural areas.

Copyrights © 2023






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijesss

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance Environmental Science Social Sciences

Description

International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science (abbreviated as IJESSS) p-ISSN 2720-9644 and e-ISSN 2721-0871 is a multidisciplinary journal covering all aspects of the environmental impacts of socio-economic development. The International Journal of Environmental, ...