Empowerment Programs and Women’s Socio-Economic Well-Being in Artisanal Fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya

Empowerment Programs and Women’s Socio-Economic Well-Being in Artisanal Fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya

Dr. Dan Adino, Prof. Peter Koros, *Ooko Samuel Ooko

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

*Corresponding Author

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.9010014

Received: 19 December 2024; Accepted: 26 December 2024; Published: 27 January 2025

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated programs that empower women to achieve their socio-economic well-being in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya. The study employed a qualitative descriptive research design and a sample of 100 women was chosen to form the unit of analysis. The study used a Purposive Sampling approach to select participants. Data was collected using key informant interviews, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and observation guides. Based on the objective, this study used a thematic data analysis method where data was presented thematically. The findings revealed that the ward, constituency, county government of Siaya, and the National government have done little to empower women in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay, the study also showed that the Centre for Health Solutions was still in existence and was assisting women in Asembo Bay with programs such as health programs, HIV/ AIDs education, and psychological support. The study also indicated that some community-based organizations such as Laven relocated to other places abandoning programs that they were overseeing in Asembo Bay. The findings showed that women faced financial, environmental, and governance challenges. The research proposed the following: the implementation of fisheries funds; the involvement of NGOs; local government, and CBOs in the daily activities in Asembo Bay; and the improvement of the working environment in Asembo Bay.

Keywords: Artisanal fishing, socioeconomic, well-being, empowerment, programs.

INTRODUCTION

Historically, fishing has been predominantly associated with men. The enduring belief in a strongly gender-segregated division of labor, where men primarily engage in fishing and women focus on processing, has influenced the prevailing approach to fishing. This approach favors men in fishing and resource management initiatives, while women are typically assigned roles in processing and marketing fisheries products (Rosello, 2021).

The recognition of women’s empowerment efforts in the fishing sector as a global priority is widespread (Asche et al., 2021). The purpose was to support women with enhanced chances to possess and manage assets that generate revenue. In their study, Gopal et al,. (2020) devised a gender strategy to analyze the gender dynamics in the fisheries sector. They proposed four programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for women in fisheries and dismantling the current obstacles in the field. One of these programs’ objectives is to implement innovations that are both gender-inclusive and gender-responsive. Another is to encourage the production of wealth and inclusive livelihoods. A fourth goal is to establish inclusive governance. Finally, gender-transformative approaches are adopted to address underlying structural impediments. The initiatives taken by the Paths program have enhanced the prominence of women, enabling them to augment their earnings by possessing fishing equipment, boats, and fish farms, and assuming managerial roles in the fisheries sector. These initiatives have effectively operated in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Egypt. The purpose of this cooperative, as outlined by Licette (2022), is to enhance employment prospects for local women and ensure food security. The cooperative empowered women by increasing their involvement in decision-making and policy-making processes, improving their socio-economic status in fisheries. The programs also offered equitable access to education and training for women, enabling their active engagement in artisanal fishing and enhancing the visibility and value of their contributions. The women’s cooperative was given the UNDP Equator Initiative medal for their efforts to promote innovative and sustainable development solutions to solve the issues encountered by women in the fisheries industry after working within the system for several years.

In Senegal, USAID and COMFISH implemented intervention initiatives to help identify the specific requirements of women involved in fish processing activities. They implemented initiatives to develop the organizational, managerial, and leadership skills of women processors. The aim was to empower them to advocate for their interests in decision-making and improve their economic strength, ultimately ensuring their socio-economic welfare. The effort successfully established the first Modern Artisanal Processing Unit in Senegal, which received formal recognition from the European Union and was made accessible to additional fishing communities (Njiru et al., 2008). These programs/initiatives have improved the overall well-being of women employed in the artisanal fishing sector.

Nigeria attempted to empower women by providing development projects in agriculture but was unsuccessful in executing them (Akintola, 2022. The Women in Agriculture (WIA) policy directive of the Agricultural Development Programs (ADPs) aimed to enhance the promotion and empowerment of women in the fishery sector within the agricultural industry. However, this policy directive ultimately failed and ceased to exist. The collapse was attributed to a deficiency in comprehending the crucial gender obstacles in fishing that impede women from fully participating in the fisheries value chain. However, it managed to register many women, but crucial interventions were overlooked during the implementation process. Most women in artisanal fishing, who come from rural fishing villages, have been excluded from obtaining information.

Researchers in Kenya have focused on promoting the health and social well-being of women involved in artisanal fishing near Lake Victoria, to empower them. The World Health Organization is closely monitoring the health and social well-being of women in Kenya, with the main objective of decreasing the prevalence of HIV in the area. Women engaged in artisanal fishing in Lake Victoria face economic vulnerability (Omollo, 2021). However, local organizations like Peace Corps have implemented programs to address this issue. Their promotion centered around the notion that women should possess the resources necessary for production, such as boats and fishing equipment, to decrease their reliance on males. The project’s implementation provided women with the option to generate their income, enabling them to start additional businesses. This reduced their dependence on men and allowed them to expand their market beyond Kisumu (Sobo et al., 2017).

Artisanal fishing is a prominent feature of Lake Victoria (Onyango, 2017). Njiru et al., (2008) states that it accounts for about 70% of the total economic output and jobs in the area as a whole. The Siaya County Integrated Development Plan indicate that enhancing the fishing industry would lead to a rise in income and improve the long-term availability of food. One of the primary objectives of the County is to enhance the capacity of fisheries and agricultural institutions to effectively tackle challenges in the fisheries sector. Asembo Bay is a specific location that the County is focusing on for fishing activities. To enhance these activities, the County plans to build administrative offices. These offices will serve many purposes such as hosting workshops, implementing programs, conducting surveillance, promoting fish markets, and providing enforcement. This would improve the economic well-being of women and the entire fishing community.

Objective of the Study

The study was guided by the objective below:

1. To evaluate empowering programs which enhance women’s socio-economic well-being in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This study utilized a qualitative approach, where a qualitative descriptive research design was employed. The study used qualitative data collection methods. A sample of 100 women was chosen to form the unit of analysis. The study used a Purposive Sampling approach to select participants. Data was collected using key informant interviews, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and observation guides. Based on the objective, this study used a thematic data analysis method where data was presented thematically.

FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

Empowering programs that enhance women’s socio-economic well-being in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya

Demographic profile of the participants

Results of the survey indicate that women between the ages of 30 and 50 made up the majority of the respondents, or 60% of the total, while women between the ages of 18 and 29 made up 30% of the total. Ultimately, the group of women who were 51 years old comprised 10% of the overall participants. The figure below displays the age distribution of the participants.

Figure 4.1: age distribution of participants

The study aimed to evaluate empowering programs that enhance women’s socio-economic well-being in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya. The study found out that there were empowering programs initiated a long time ago by community-based organizations such as Laven, however, it was noted that the organization has since relocated. Their relocation stalled those projects that were under their supervision. For example, the study showed that there was no more distribution of goats and chickens which were beneficial to women. The existing literature by Akintola, (2022), indicated that Nigeria attempted to empower women by providing development programs in the fisheries sector, but ultimately failed to implement such initiatives. The researcher found that the Community Health Solutions organization, which is already established, closely engages with women involved in artisanal fishing. The organization provides a range of programs, such as health education, psychosocial assistance, and HIV education. By doing so, they actively contribute to solving the tangible requirements of society, aiding the conversion of rural fishing communities, and supporting the socio-economic well-being of women.

The results show that not much has been done to support women engaged in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay by the ward, constituency, county government, or national government. The responders noted that the only physical construction built by the government near the beach was a restroom facility that lacked access to running water. However, based on information from reliable sources, both the national and local governments have actively supported and offered numerous possibilities for women in the fishing industry to improve their socio-economic well-being.

The statement provided by a respondent indicates the existence of covert programs that aid women in improving their socio-economic well-being,

I have not come across any programs that support empowerment in this coastal area, nor have I been made aware of any. While there may be other programs involved in various activities, I have been present here for the past three years and have not received any requests from any organization to register or reveal personal information. The absence of assistance compels specific individuals to partake in disruptive conduct as they strive to acquire financial resources to further their enterprises. As a woman, I desire the implementation of beneficial initiatives by organizations or the government to foster our entrepreneurial growth (Respondent number 10, 2023).

In a focus group conversation, one discussant acknowledged the relevance of an existing program and how it has benefitted them. The discussant said the following,

Adjacent to the road in the marketplace, there exists a Community-Based Organization (CBO) known as the Center for Health Solutions. We have received training on health-related topics. Various events are taking place here, attracting individuals from diverse regions who gather to interact, acquaint themselves with one another, and engage in discussions about our lives. As an illustration, I happened to become friends with an individual who arrived at this location with the purpose of building boats. We mutually decided to collaborate to get extra resources for the construction of boats. Regrettably, I was unaware that I was engaging in a conversation with an individual of dishonest character who deceitfully obtained a sum of Ksh 25000 from me. I received assistance from CHS, who intervened to prevent the development of a potential mental disorder and potentially severe depression. We have numerous challenges at the beach at this location, hence we require other groups to help us. If possible, the government might arrange training programs for beach workers on various topics such as financial management, resource management, marketing, and empowerment to ensure competence and proficiency in their work. There exist numerous opportunities, although we often fail to recognize them due to our lack of awareness or insufficient education to effectively capitalize on these opportunities (Female discussant, 2023).

Another remark from the respondent indicates how women in Asembo Bay benefit from community health solutions programs,

CHS provides education on several topics including health hazards, emotional well-being, and HIV prevention. At the beach, individuals have diverse objectives. Some seek financial opportunities, while others seek refuge. Some pursue better opportunities, while many seek romantic companions. I am here to generate income by selling ochong’a. I am pleased that the CBO is available to assist certain individuals. It is through their programs that some of us remain in this location, otherwise we would have relocated to alternative areas. Mental diseases are a notable problem in this context. A significant number of individuals, particularly women, are experiencing psychological problems. Some of them seek assistance after engaging in conflicts with their partners at home. When conversing with these individuals, it may appear as if we are provoking a confrontation (Female discussant, 2023).

The findings indicated that the national, county, and ward governments have made no efforts to improve the well-being of women engaged in artisanal activities in Asembo Bay. A single participant expressed that viewpoint,

If our county, Siaya, only constructed a basic pit latrine. The National Youth Service, from the same county, arrived three years ago to dismantle our constructions and pledged to revitalize the beach. However, no development initiatives have been undertaken here since then. It seems that the National government is unaware of the existence of this bay. I implore the administration to diligently pursue improvement and complete their ongoing initiatives, thereby creating a conducive work atmosphere for us (Respondent number11, 2023).

However, one influential source expressed optimism over the national government’s implementation of initiatives aimed at supporting women in the fishing sector. Here was his perspective,

Names of our female individuals have been forwarded to the appropriate governing body. I am confident that the requirements of women in the sector will be addressed, as the data indicates that women are increasingly assuming leadership roles in fisheries, both in Kenya and worldwide. Therefore, the initiative taken by the national government, through the Ministry of Blue Economy, is highly commendable. I am aware that they are introducing programs aimed at empowering women, and our role will be to support the implementation of these programs (Female discussant, 2023).

The responder’s statements highlights the significance of implementing empowering initiatives to support their endeavors at the beach and within the community.

I am a recipient of the Laven empowering programs, which involved providing individuals with goats and hens. The concept was commendable as it did not solely depend on fish. Regrettably, the group relocated. However, I must acknowledge that I profited from their endeavors. I recall selling the goat and acquiring additional chickens, which ultimately led to the establishment of my thriving poultry farm specializing in indigenous breeds. During festive occasions like Easter and Christmas, I generate substantial income from the sale of eggs produced by my poultry.  It would be highly beneficial if another group were to provide similar ideas for empowering us (Female discussant, 2023).

The study showed that there were programs initiated by women in Asembo Bay. Through the observation guide, women have better opportunities to have ownership and control of assets that generate income for them. The study observed that women launched merry-go-round initiatives as a means to help them address their welfare. The study observed that women converged every Saturday in different groups of ten members to contribute money to one treasurer. One group member indicated that,

 As women, we have operated under the assumption that we are solely responsible for addressing our own needs. Consequently, we have initiated the provision of support during the farewell process, which is particularly challenging to address when one of us encounters a hardship. Subsequently, we will focus on further initiatives that can generate income, such as implementing a program where each individual is gifted a goat, similar to what Laven previously did for us. If we revive that project, I am certain that within three years we will achieve significant progress. Specifically, we will all possess either goats, sheep, or cows, as discussed in the focus group (Female discussant, 2023).

A statement from the key informant shows that women launching their empowerment programs would be a good notion as women are diligent. The statement reads,

Women possess the knowledge and ability to provide economic assistance to one another. At the markets, you have observed women vending the merchandise of another woman who is not present. At the beach, a similar situation unfolds: certain women arrive, showcase their belongings, and subsequently depart to address important matters at home. Meanwhile, another woman oversees the management of her merchandise. Upon her return, she receives a report detailing the items that were sold. The main idea conveyed is that women should develop their initiatives to enhance their empowerment. Dependence on external assistance proves futile. Although they may begin on a small scale, as long as they possess a clear direction, their endeavors have the potential to burgeon into something immense and foster collaboration with other participants (key informant, 2023).

However, a discussion with the key informant indicates that as a department, they were working closely with International Fund for Agricultural Development to boost women’s participation in the fisheries. Below is what he had to say,

To help us with initiatives that would promote development and empower people at the beach, we are working with IFAD. IFAD provides gill nets, engines, feeds, fridges, and education to both men and women in the fisheries industry. However, priority is given to women as they play a crucial role in fisheries, particularly in the artisanal fishing sector. IFAD’s development initiatives will enhance women’s participation in the fisheries sector, hence enhancing their welfare by mitigating poverty in the fishing bays (Key informant, 2023).

According to another prominent source within the women group leaders, it has been noted that women experience rapid growth and development when they receive help in the form of affordable loans and necessary equipment. This is attributed to their consistent loyalty and dedication. Here was her declaration,

As the leader of a women’s group, our primary objective is to seek assistance for our business. We are specifically looking for NGOs or CBOs that are willing to provide us with low-interest loans or support to expand our business. With such assistance, we believe we can achieve significant progress. There are female-founded groups here, but they lack dynamism due to the small credit limit, which is insufficient even to purchase three basins. These organizations exist solely to assist in case some of us encounter issues such as illness, ensuring prompt support is easily available. Currently, we do not have any non-governmental organizations providing support for empowerment programs in our location (Key informant, 2023).

The focus group discussion revealed that the participants suggested implementing structural modifications within the Ministry of Agriculture at the county level. Specifically, they propose establishing an office dedicated to women’s affairs, which would provide a convenient platform for women to visit and discuss their development concerns. These offices would be set up at both the county and sub-county levels. According to the respondents, certain positions are occupied by men, and they perceive a lack of assistance. The discussant made the following statement,

Establishing offices at both the county and sub-county levels would be advantageous, as it would facilitate effective communication with our concerns and issues related to fishing activity. I advocate for women to occupy those offices. By implementing this approach, the practice of belittling women in the fisheries industry will cease, as we will have easily accessible fish funds that can be utilized for development purposes (Female discussant, 2023).

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

The study aimed to evaluate empowering programs that enhance women’s socio-economic well-being in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay. Siaya County, Kenya. The results show that not much has been done to support women engaged in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay by the ward, constituency, county government, or national government. The responders noted that the only physical construction built by the government near the beach was a restroom facility that lacks access to running water. The findings revealed that women in Asembo Bay needed programs to support them. The study noted that some women decided to form merry-go round to raise funds to facilitate their welfare.  The findings showed that only one NGO was active in implementing programs that assist women in the areas of psychological support, HIV training, and management. As a result, and in conformity with Njiru et al., (2008), such programs improve the overall well-being of women in the artisanal fishing sector. The study also found that 20% of the respondents were stagnant in their business due to a lack of sufficient support from external bodies.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The study sought to understand the how empowering programs at Asembo Bay impacts women’s socio-economic well-being. The study noted that women experienced minimal impact from the existing programs at Asembo Bay. The study revealed the need to have more external players to assist women enhance their socio-economic well-being. Inadequate support led them to organized themselves and form merry-go round to raise some money as startup for boosting their businesses. The study indicated that the government has done little in supporting women, the feedback showed that that County government of Siaya only constructed a pit latrine without running water. The respondents revealed that they expected the government to implement empowerment programs that would enable conducive environment for doing business hence enhancing their economic well-being. From the observation, the researcher noticed that there were empowerment opportunities that the CBOs and the NGOs could engaged at the beach but that have not been discovered.   However, women started identifying their potentials by coming together to form merry-go round which enabled them collect funds which helped them facilitate easy access to loans. Finally, the study recommended for the creation of county fisheries funds to enable women with loans and other needs. The study recommended for the involvement of the CBOs, NGOs, and the government in the day to day activities at the beach. Finally, the study recommended for the improvement of the working conditions at the beach to enhance development.

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