Nyamaka, Kasukura
(2019)
The Impact of Informal
Savings Schemes on Household welfare of Smallholder Farmers in Kilolo
District, Iringa, Tanzania.
Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.
Abstract
This study explored the impact of the Village Saving and Loan Associations (VSLA’s-an informal
saving scheme) in enhancing welfare (Social economic Status of smallholder farmers households
in Kilolo District, Iringa region. Objectively the study determined the impact of rural households’
participation in the informal savings schemes (VSLAs) on their farm productivity, assessed the
impact of VSLA in supporting education. Moreover it analysed on how VSLAs contributed on
supporting in education financing expenditure and reduction in school dropout rates amongst rural
households. Also it examined the impact of VSLAs in supporting the development and/or
diversification of small holder farmers’ income generating activities (IGAs). The study employed
a mixed methods design, with emphasis on qualitative approach. It involved 208 respondents from
VSLA and non-VSLA members reached through questionnaires, focus group discussions and
interviews. The result shows that the participation in the saving scheme has been found to have
created positive impact on the smallholder farmers’ household welfare in four aspects which are
household income, education support (education expenditure and school dropout rates) and
establishment, development and diversification of IGA’s. The VSLA have also reduced the women
in men dependence economy on the household welfare. The VSLA programme has significantly
contributed to women to in establishing and managing the IGA’s which in turn has enhanced their
economic status, which enables them to earn extra income through which they can gain greater
financial autonomy. It is recommended that Kilolo District leaders should replicate and enhance
VSLA program to smallholder farmers in other villages within district to enable them to have
planned saving mobilization.
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |