Perceived Impact of TraderMoni on Poverty Alleviation among Market Women in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the perceived impact of TraderMoni on poverty alleviation among market women in Oyo State. Three research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population comprised market women who had benefited from the TraderMoni programme in Oyo State, from which 300 respondents were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Perceived Impact of TraderMoni on Poverty Alleviation Questionnaire (PITPAQ). The instrument was validated by two experts, while its reliability was established using the Cronbach Alpha method. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that market women perceived TraderMoni as having a positive impact on their income and business activities. The respondents also perceived that the programme had improved their ability to meet household basic needs, particularly food, children's education, clothing, household bills and housing expenses. Furthermore, TraderMoni was perceived to have contributed to economic empowerment and financial stability by improving financial independence, business decision-making, control over business resources, money management and the ability to handle unexpected expenses. However, the findings indicated that the programme had limited influence on the ability of some women to meet relatively costly needs such as medical expenses. The study recommended increased financial support, business training, financial literacy, mentoring and complementary social-protection interventions for beneficiaries.