Performance Determinants Of Women Self Help Groups In Agricultural Financing In Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area Of Abia State, Nigeria.
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Abstract
This study analysed performance of women self help groups in Agricultural financing in Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia state, Nigeria. Multi stage and purposive sampling techniques were used to select respondents. Primary data were gathered using semi structured questionnaire that were personally administered. Descriptive statistics and ordinary least square (OLS) multiple regression model were used for data analysis. Results showed that mean age and household size of the women farmers were 41.78 years and 4 members respectively. Also, mean number of years of membership in women self help group was 6.43 years and mean annual income of the women farmers was N 195, 333.3. The result indicated that the women members of self help groups disbursed more loans to women crop farmers (N361, 000.00).The OLS multiple regression result revealed that years of formal education, farm size, household size and total value of savings of the groups were significant determinants at varied signs and level of volume of fund supplied to food crop production by women self help groups. Also, years of formal education, farm income, interest rate and total value of savings/income were significant determinants at varied signs and level of volume of fund supplied to poultry production by women self help groups. The major problems encountered as observed by 75.0% and 60.0% of the groups were insufficient loanable fund and irregular contribution respectively Policy makers interested in improving the living conditions of women farmers are advised to consider promoting women self help groups as one relevant ingredient to achieve gender equality and poverty alleviation.
Key words: Self-Help-Group, agricultural financing, women, credit
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References
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