Research Articles

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Browsing Research Articles by Author "Acio, Christine"

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    Gender-Specific Entrepreneurship Programs: Understanding the Lived experiences of Rural Women Entrepreneurs In Amolatar Sub-Region, Uganda
    (Researchjournali’s Journal of Entrepreneurship, 2024) Akello, Judith Abal; Ebila, Florence; Ejang, Mary; Acanga, Alfred; Ayo, Harriet; Acio, Christine; Kabunga, Amir
    Women constitute a significant portion of the global population and play vital roles in economic development through entrepreneurial activities. Despite their potential, female entrepreneurs, especially in developing countries like Uganda, face numerous challenges including limited access to capital, education, and support networks. This study investigates the impact of gender-specific entrepreneurship programs on rural women in the Amolatar Sub-Region, Uganda, focusing on their experiences, challenges, and contributions to economic development. A phenomenological research design was employed to capture the lived experiences of rural women entrepreneurs. The study was conducted in the Amolatar Sub-Region of Uganda, involving 26 beneficiaries of the Uganda Women Empowerment Program (UWEP), two focus group discussions (FGDs), and two key informant interviews with cultural leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, FGDs, and document analysis, and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five main themes emerged from the analysis: Economic Empowerment and Impact, where women reported significant improvements in their economic status through participation in UWEP, resulting in increased income and financial stability; Skill Development and Acquisition, where participants acquired essential business skills such as financial management and record-keeping, enhancing their ability to run and sustain their enterprises; Challenges and Resilience, where women faced obstacles including poor infrastructure, cultural barriers, and resistance from husbands but demonstrated resilience through group cohesion and adaptability; Gender Dynamics and Family Support, where support from husbands and family members varied, with a gradual shift in cultural attitudes towards women's economic participation; and Community Perception, Support, and Future Aspirations, where there was an evolving positive perception of women's roles, increased community support, and optimism about future business expansion and community development. Gender-specific entrepreneurship programs like UWEP significantly contribute to the economic empowerment of rural women in Amolatar, Uganda. The programs help women acquire crucial business skills, overcome challenges, and gain support from their families and communities. These initiatives are essential for fostering sustainable economic development and gender equality in rural areas. Keywords: Rural Women Entrepreneurs, Gender-Specific Programs, Economic Empowerment, Uganda Women Empowerment Program
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    The influence of Uganda women’s entrepreneurship program on livelihoods and cultural dynamics in Amolatar, Northern Uganda
    (International Journal of Social Sciences Perspectives, 2024) Abal, Judith Akello; Ebila, Florence; Ayo, Harriet; Acio, Christine; Kabunga, Amir
    This article examines the influence of women’s economic empowerment initiatives under Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP) on livelihoods and cultural dynamics in Amolatar Sub-Region, Northern Uganda. The study focused on how UWEP has contributed to improving women’s economic status and their roles within the cultural practices in the region. A Qualitative interpretive framework as well phenomenological research design was employed in this study involving in-depth and key informant interviews as well as focus group discussion with 28 participants. The study is grounded in Agency theory by Kabeer and Cultural Capital Theory by Bourdieu, which emphasise women’s participation in entrepreneurship to transform their economic lives and well-being within existing social structures. This research indicates that, UWEP greatly contributes to women’s active agency, allowing them to challenge obstacle within the communities, particularly gender inequality and social stratification. In addition, women’s participation in entrepreneurship coupled with the positive shifts in cultural attitudes in Amolatar sub-region have improved their livelihoods through self-employment. This study emphasise the significance of continuous support by Uganda government through Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MoGLSD) for UWEP. Constant support is important to further empower women as well as improve their economic status and well-being within their families and communities.