Gender disparities in program outcomes and post-program trajectories in Palabek Refugee Settlement, Lamwo District

Abstract

This study explored the influence of gender on economic empowerment programs in Palabek Refugee Settlement, focusing on disparities in participation, benefit receipt, and post-program outcomes. The primary objective was to examine gender differences in access to financial services, asset ownership, financial literacy, and household decision-making. A mixed-method approach was utilized, involving quantitative and qualitative data collection. The sample consisted of 150 respondents, selected through purposive and random sampling. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings revealed significant gender disparities. Women, particularly married women and those with lower education levels, faced considerable barriers in accessing credit, owning land, and participating in household decision-making. Only 30% of women accessed formal credit, compared to 39% of men, and women were 40% less likely to engage in financial inclusion programs. However, women with higher education levels had better access to financial services and assets. The study recommended implementing gender-sensitive financial inclusion programs, policies to increase women’s economic participation, and vocational training to address these disparities. Future research should focus on the impact of financial inclusion on women’s economic empowerment and explore the relationship between decision-making and women’s economic outcomes in refugee contexts. This research highlighted the critical need for gender-responsive policies to foster the economic empowerment of women in refugee settings.