A Perspective Study of Women Micro-Entrepreneurs in the Rural Areas of Osun State, Nigeria

The socio-economic contributions of rural-women entrepreneurs in many countries have not been properly captured in the right perspective. Consequently, the economic potentials of this category of rural dwellers have been underutilized. This empirical study highlights some salient features of these entrepreneurs and their micro-enterprises. Their demographic characteristics as well as motivation factors, among others, were collected from a purposive sample of one hundred and fifty women micro-entrepreneurs from five rural areas in Aiyedire Local government Area (LGA) of Osun state using structured questionnaires. The interview technique, alongside a consideration of relevant extant literatures was also utilized to increase the richness of the data obtained. The information obtained in the survey was analysed using simple descriptive statistical tools with the support of the computer statistical software SPSS 14.0.In conclusion, the women micro-entrepreneurs make significant contributions to the socio-economic well-being of their families, the rural communities as well as the country at large. It is recommended that for such contributions to be more substantial, the entrepreneurial capabilities of these women needs to be further enhanced through gender specific supports that are rural friendly. Keywords: Rural, Woman-entrepreneur, Micro-enterprise, Entrepreneurship