EFFECT OF WOMEN EMPOWERMENT ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN ABIA STATE

ABSTRACT This study examined the effect of women empowerment on community development in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically, the research sought to: (i) examine the impact of women entrepreneurs’ empowerment on community development; (ii) determine the impact of women cooperative entrepreneurship on community development; (iii) examine the contribution of women farming entrepreneurs to community development; and (iv) evaluate the impact of women artisanal entrepreneurs on community development. The study employed a descriptive survey design and utilized structured questionnaires administered to selected women across various entrepreneurial sectors in Abia State. Data were analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression modelling. The findings revealed that women entrepreneurs’ empowerment had a significant positive effect on community development in Abia State. Women cooperative entrepreneurship also had a significant and positive effect on community development. Furthermore, the contribution of women farming entrepreneurs was found to be significantly impactful on community development. Lastly, women artisanal entrepreneurs also had a significant positive effect on the development of their communities. These results underscore the pivotal role of women empowerment across different sectors in driving socioeconomic transformation at the grassroots level. The study recommends strategic investment in women-focused empowerment initiatives, greater support for cooperative structures, increased access to farming inputs and training for women farmers, and the promotion of artisanal trades through cultural and economic programs. The findings contribute to the discourse on inclusive development and serve as a basis for policymaking and future research on gender-responsive community development strategies.