Free Access | 2024-04-12

What does the low uptake of the Small Business Recovery Fund mean for women enterprises in Uganda?

Authors/Editors: Ibrahim Kasirye (PhD) ,  Brian Sserunjogi (PhD) ,  Phionah Namuliira (PhD) ,  Bulime Enock W.

Abstract:

In 2021, Uganda established the Small Business Recovery Fund (SBRF) to support micro and small businesses adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the fund has experienced low uptake, particularly among women-owned enterprises, highlighting persistent challenges in accessing capital and resources for business recovery and growth. A recent survey by the Economic Policy Research Center (EPRC) identified several barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing SBRF loans, including stringent collateral requirements, limited access to banking services, and disparities in loan amounts. We propose policy actions to address these issues, including increasing awareness among women about the block allocation arrangement, building the capacity of women’s enterprises to be credit worthy, and consistently addressing the gender gaps that hinder women from owning property, among others.