Analysis of factors influencing the persistence of poverty among female-headed households: Case of Huye District, Rwanda

Emmanuel Hakizimana; Mary Damas Kitula

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.4.77

Authors

Emmanuel Hakizimana The Open University of Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6638-4782
Mary Damas Kitula The Open University of Tanzania Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.4.77

Keywords:

Factors, Female Headed-Households, Huye District, Poverty

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to analyse the factors influencing the persistence of poverty within female-headed households in the Huye District of Rwanda. Drawing on feminist development theories, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Through a combination of random and purposive sampling, 87 respondents were selected—comprising individuals from female-headed households, officials from the Huye District, and representatives from the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF). Data were collected via questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis; the findings were subsequently examined using univariate analysis and content analysis techniques. The study reveals that factors such as poor health, large family size, prolonged dependency on men, low self-esteem, limited education, lack of risk taking, an inability to engage in independent economic activity, restricted access to land, and social isolation are the key determinants of persistent poverty among female-headed households in the Huye District. The study recommends that adult education programs incorporate life-skills training to equip women heading households with the capacity to launch small- or medium-scale ventures and access employment opportunities. Furthermore, local administrative structures should ensure transparency and implement affirmative action measures to guarantee that these households are fully integrated into community development activities led by local authorities.

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