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This study was designed to assess the factors that affect the performance of women entrepreneurs in SMEs: insights from SIDO in Ilala Municipality. Specifically the study aimed at describing the strategies used by SIDO and other stakeholders to help women entrepreneurs in SMEs to overcome the problems; to find out the significance of women entrepreneurs in SMEs and to identify the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in SMEs. A case study design was used. SIDO being the key area of the study. TAFOPA being the main group of the women entrepreneurs who were supported by SIDO. Sampling techniques used were Purposive sampling and Snow ball sampling. Data collection method instruments were included; documentary review, self administered questionnaire as well as face to face interviews were used. Results of this study revealed that, improving access to finance to women entrepreneurs in SMEs as well as providing enough training will improve the performance in business and reduce poverty. The stategies includes; capacitybuilding strategy, where Women Entrepreneurship Development (WED) Programme were established to help women entrepreneurs in SMEs including TAFOPA. Other strategies includes; Partnership strategy, Research strategy and Training Strategy. The significant of this study includes; income generation; employment creation; Resource utilization; Business partnership; In additional is Poverty reduction as well as infrastructures development; Some challenges were noted including; Lack of Educational background in business and Technology know-how, Barriers in accessing finance, Dual role stress that women face, Social and cultural constraints, Lack of awareness of laws and ignorance, Lack of business plan as well as Lack of Training and Business Development Services. Finally, the study recommends that; Government together with SIDO should strengthen strong strategies in order to help the women entrepreneurs to overcome challenges. Commercial Banks should alleviate some of the challenges encountered by women in accessing credit to support the growth of their enterprises. Women should take serious engaging in business, and balance their activities so as to maintain working in business and taking care of the family |
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