ASSESSMENT OF ECONOMIC STATUS OF WOMEN IN MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISE: THE CASE OF DURAME TOWN, KAMBATA TEMBARO ZONE, SNNPR

Abstract This study is aimed at assessing the economic status of women who engaged in micro and small enterprises in Durame Town of KambataTembaro Zone. Data collection was made from women associations (organized by Micro and Small Enterprise Office) and from officers working in the office. Data collection instruments were semi-structured interview; focus group discussions and both open and close ended questionnaires. Data analysis enjoyed descriptive method employing qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study results have shown that most women participated in butter trade though they faced multiple challenges that include lack of community encouragement, lack of fair screening, lack of equity in business placement, problems with availability of conducive work place, burdens from multiple household responsibilities at home, lack of support from partners, lack of capital, limited income, and lack of training. The study recommends that the government and concerned public and non-government organizations need to provide necessary financial, technical and moral supports for the women who are willing to commit themselves in the business environment.