Women Engagement in Entrepreneurial Activities and the Household Stability in Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess women engagement in entrepreneurial activities and the household stability in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania. The study'sspecific objectives were: to determine the motives behind women engagement in entrepreneurial activities in the study area; to assess the effects of time spent on entrepreneurial activities on household stability; to determine the influence of earnings from entrepreneurial activities on household stability; and to determine the impact Of women entrepreneurs' social networks on household stability, The study employed a cross- sectional research design and both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. The sample size was 100 respondents consisting of women entrepreneurs in Moshi Municipality. Data were collected through survey, interview, and documentary review. Data were analyzed through SPSS and Excel and presented through tables. Findings of the study showed that that culture, family responsibility, level of education, income, family Support and poverty were among the motives for women to engage in entrepreneurial activities. The study concluded that women entrepreneurs also had little time with their family. 'Ibe main motives that influenced women to engage in entrepreneurial activities were income, poverty and family responsibility. Equally that earning obtained from entrepreneurship was used for the sake of household wellbeing. The study revealed that women entrepreneurs’social networks had a good influence in household viability. 'Ibe study concludes that when women are engaged in entrepreneurial activities contribute to the family and household stability. The study recommends creating conducive environment for more women to engage in entrepreneurial activities, and also women should learn to balance time for entrepreneurial activities and household matters