Social safety nets empower women and advance sustainable development in rural Uganda

This mixed-methods study examines how Social Safety Net Programs (SSNPs) empower women in rural Bushenyi District, Uganda, with particular emphasis on the role of public–private partnerships (PPPs) in program implementation. Quantitative data were collected through a structured survey of women beneficiaries (n = 124), complemented by key informant interviews and focus group discussions with public and private stakeholders. Descriptive and inferential analyses were employed, alongside thematic qualitative analysis. Results indicate strong perceived PPP performance and a robust positive association between PPP quality and SSNP implementation. Regression analysis shows that PPPs explain a substantial share of variation in implementation outcomes, underscoring the importance of coordinated governance, resource complementarity, and stakeholder engagement. Qualitative findings corroborate the quantitative results, highlighting the role of public-sector non-financial contributions, private-sector technical expertise, and participatory engagement in improving delivery efficiency, transparency, and program acceptance. Overall, the findings demonstrate that well-structured PPPs enhance the effectiveness of SSNP implementation, thereby strengthening pathways to women’s empowerment in rural contexts. The study contributes to social protection and development literature by integrating Principal–Agent and Capabilities perspectives in a mixed-methods framework. Policy implications emphasize the need to formalize PPP accountability mechanisms, integrate skills development with social transfers, and institutionalize transparent reporting to sustain empowerment outcomes for rural women.