Faith-Based Organizations and Women’s Economic Empowerment: A Case Study of Mbulu District- Tanzania

Abstract

This study was conducted in Mbulu district, Manyara region to examine the contribution of Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) in promoting women’s economic empowerment, animated with the fact that FBOs were supporting women but less was known on the impact of the support. The study identified FBOs working in Mbulu District and the target the socio-economic situation of women after empowerment.A sample of 48 respondents was selected through stratified, purposive and convenience sampling techniques to provide information relevant to this study. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentary review. The findings revealed that the presence of   FBOs in Mbulu District had positive impact on women’s standard of living. The majority of them managed to establish their income generating activities like livestock keeping, crop business, gardening and food vending, knitting and tailoring. Their standard of living improved as compared to the time they were not supported by FBOs. The recommendations include establishing rural adult education centers, conducting lobbying and advocacy, encouraging local leaders’ participation, seeking for reliable market access, linking women with other development partners

Keywords: Faith based organizations, Women Economic Empowerment, Mbulu District