The Role of Women in Informal Cross-Border Trade and Economic Empowerment in Ebonyi State

Women constitute a dominant proportion of informal cross-border traders in West Africa, yet their economic contribution and empowerment outcomes from such trade remain insufficiently documented in Southeast Nigerian contexts. This study examines the role of women in informal cross-border trade and its implications for female economic empowerment in Ebonyi State from 2021 to 2024. The study is anchored on the Gender and Trade Nexus Framework, which argues that trade participation by women generates income diversification, productive autonomy, and social capital that collectively advance female economic agency. A survey research design was employed, targeting women engaged in cross-border trading activities along Ebonyi State's borders with Benue, Cross River, and Enugu states. From an estimated population of 4,200 female cross-border traders, a sample of 352 respondents was selected through purposive and snowball sampling methods. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions constituted the data instruments. Findings reveal that 83 percent of surveyed female traders reported improvements in household income and decision-making authority as a direct result of cross-border trade participation. However, harassment at border checkpoints, unofficial fees, and physical insecurity were cited as major deterrents to consistent trading activity. The study concludes that informal cross-border trade is a significant pathway to female economic empowerment in Ebonyi State despite operational barriers. It is recommended that state authorities advocate for formalized border management protocols that protect women traders and reduce extortion at crossing points.

Keywords: Cross-border trade, women empowerment, informal trade, Ebonyi State, gender and trade