The Role of Cooperative Societies in Poverty Reduction Among Rural Women in Igbo-Eze North LGA, Enugu State

Cooperative societies represent a foundational mechanism for collective economic empowerment among rural populations, particularly women who face systemic exclusion from formal financial institutions. This study assesses the role of cooperative societies in poverty reduction among rural women in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Enugu State, with data drawn from the period 2020 to 2024. The study is theoretically grounded in the Social Capital Theory, which argues that collective social networks and institutions enhance resource mobilization and economic resilience among marginalized groups. A survey research design was adopted, with a target population of 3,200 women cooperative members registered across Igbo-Eze North LGA. Using proportionate stratified sampling, 342 respondents were selected. A structured questionnaire containing closed- and open-ended items was the principal data instrument, supplemented by focus group discussions. Findings reveal that membership in cooperative societies increased average household income among female participants by 28 percent over the study period. Access to pooled savings, low-interest loans, and bulk purchase opportunities were identified as the primary income-enhancement mechanisms. However, weak governance structures, limited financial education, and poor record-keeping diminished the effectiveness of some cooperatives. The study concludes that cooperative societies serve as meaningful channels for rural women's economic advancement in Enugu State. It is recommended that the state government provide structured training in cooperative management and strengthen regulatory oversight to improve cooperative accountability and sustainability.

Keywords: Cooperative societies, poverty reduction, rural women, social capital, Enugu State