Free Access | May 2017

RURAL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN UGANDA A SYNTHESIS REPORT ON POLICIES, EVIDENCE, AND STAKEHOLDERS

Authors/Editors: Sarah Ssewanyana (PhD) ,  Madina M. Guloba (PhD) ,  Elizabeth Birabwa Aliro

Abstract:

This synthesis report evaluates rural women’s entrepreneurship in Uganda; specifically under the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP); as a strategy for poverty alleviation and economic development. Utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBoS), findings show that roughly 75% of rural women entrepreneurs are illiterate and primarily operate informal, micro, seasonal, non-farm enterprises, relying heavily on informal local groups like Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs) for financing. To support business expansion and success, the report emphasizes the need to revive adult literacy programs, provide tailored financial literacy training, establish mentorship networks and early warning systems, and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among first-time business owners. Additionally, it stresses the importance of guiding informal enterprises toward formalization so they can access broader economic benefits. Crucially, UWEP management must ensure equitable credit distribution across urban, peri-urban, and rural areas' as well as across regions, education levels, and enterprise types' to prevent higher, resourced urban entrepreneurs from overshadowing higher need rural women. Furthermore, since group-based models may not appeal equally to urban and peri-urban entrepreneurs, strategies should be adapted to suit different operational contexts. Finally, government and non-government stakeholders must actively support and encourage women to diversify beyond traditional, female-dominated sectors into modern, non-feminine, and high-tech industries.