TRANSFORMING WOMEN LIVELIHOODS BY DAIRY FARMING AND MICROFINANCE IN BUNYALA, WESTERN KENYA

This paper is about microfinance viewed as a social change “tool kit” and its consequent effects on livelihoods of women of Bunyala, especially those involved in small-scale diary farming. The study investigated microfinance strategies, effects and challenges encountered by the farmers. Census techniques were applied in collecting primary data on all 93 dairy farmers in Bunyala District. The main instruments of data collection were questionnaires and document analysis. Data was obtained from dairy farmers, key respondents from the government, civil society organizations and microfinance institutions in Budalang‟i. The data collected was coded and keyed into computer using Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) computer program. It was further analyzed and organized in tables, pie and bar charts for easy interpretation. Gender preferences in accessing microfinance services were not there and collateral was the biggest challenge in accessing microcredit. In conclusion microfinance was an important toolkit in providing social change and improving the livelihoods. The study suggests that women in Bunyala be empowered through trainings especially on saving methods so as to use microfinance optimally