Influence of Team Factors on Performance of Women Enterprise Fund Loan Groups in South Imenti Constituency, Kenya

Abstract

The Women Enterprise Fund (WEF) was established in 2007 as a programme for empowering women and reducing poverty. Studies conducted on this programme have found that while there are some women groups that have excelled after receiving funds, a good number have performed dismally. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of team factors on the performance of WEF loan groups in South Imenti Constituency. The study utilized the descriptive research design where 76 women groups that received WEF loans in 2014 were targeted. Data was collected from a sample of 12 women groups that were selected using a multistage sampling method that combined clustered, random, and purposive sampling techniques. Focus group discussions were used to collect data from group members while semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from group officials. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics through the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 and result presented using tables and figures. Qualitative data was analysed using the thematic analysis technique and results presented using illustrative quotes. Result showed that the performance of the groups was moderate with the majority having a monthly group income of Ksh 10,000-49,999. Most of the groups had also acquired assets like livestock, tents and seats but had also engaged in acquisition of non-productive assets like kitchenware. The performance of the groups was influenced by team factors like group size, group leadership, and group cohesion. Based on these findings, the study concludes that team factors influence the performance of WEF loan groups in South Imenti Constituency. The findings underscore the need for development policies that promote optimal group sizes and prioritize team-building initiatives.