Enterprise Characteristics Affecting Resource Poor Women Food Vendors\' Income Generation In Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Food is an important basic need of life because it keeps the body system working well. Women have been known to be the major stakeholders in the provision of food. Food
vending is a common practice among resource-poor women in Southeastern Nigeria.
This study examines socio-economic characteristics affecting resource poor women
food vendors and their income generation in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected
from 109 respondents with the aid of structured questionnaire and interview schedule.
The study found that low income earners dominate food vending venture, manpower
involvement was not adequate, and there was less difficulty in managing the business.
Problems identified by respondents included insufficient finance, indiscriminate
demands for tax from government officials, high cost of foodstuff, levies from local
government, illegal collectors of levies, difficulty in buying cooking fuel.

Keywords: Enterprise characteristics, resource poor women food vendors

Global Approaches to Extension Practice Vol. 2 (1) 2006: pp. 21-28