Abstract:
Women’s role within society has a remarkable impact on poverty alleviation, though
they are susceptible to gender-based inequalities, uncompensated caregiving, and
domestic duties. This study examined the socio-economic factors influencing poverty
among women in Langas, Uasin Gishu County. The specific objectives were: (i) to
examine the socio-demographic factors affecting women in Langas, (ii) to determine
the income levels and patterns that impact household poverty, (iii) to assess household
expenditure levels and patterns that influence poverty, and (iv) to analyze women’s
economic status in relation to household poverty. Guided by Sen’s Capability
Approach, the study adopted a descriptive research design with a sample of 380 women
selected through stratified and simple random sampling. Data were collected using
structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and
binary logistic regression. The regression results revealed that several socio-
demographic and economic factors significantly predict household poverty.
Employment status was a significant determinant (β = -0.061, p = 0.048), suggesting
that women engaged in stable employment face reduced poverty risk. Savings emerged
as a protective factor (β = -0.385, p = 0.020), while reliance on credit increased
vulnerability to poverty (β = 0.556, p = 0.013). Household expenditure adequacy
strongly predicted poverty likelihood (β = 0.714, p = 0.001), as did disproportionate
spending on food and beverages (β = 0.856, p = 0.045). Women’s economic
empowerment reduced poverty risk (β = -0.537, p = 0.016), while the ability to earn
income significantly lowered poverty incidence (β = 0.516, p = 0.031). Access to
savings/loans for emergencies (β = -0.473, p = 0.043) and current economic
knowledge/skills (β = -0.535, p = 0.027) were also protective. These findings
underscore that wage stability, prudent income patterns, adequate household
expenditure, and women’s empowerment collectively shape poverty outcomes. The
study concludes that policy interventions should focus on enhancing women’s access
to stable employment, savings opportunities, and financial literacy while reducing
dependence on informal credit systems. Strengthening women’s empowerment
programs can significantly reduce poverty vulnerability and improve household
welfare.
