Empowerment Programs and Women’s Socio-Economic Well-Being in Artisanal Fishing in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya

This study evaluated programs that empower women to achieve their socio-economic well-being in Asembo Bay, Siaya County, Kenya. The study employed a qualitative descriptive research design and a sample of 100 women was chosen to form the unit of analysis. The study used a Purposive Sampling approach to select participants. Data was collected using key informant interviews, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and observation guides. Based on the objective, this study used a thematic data analysis method where data was presented thematically. The findings revealed that the ward, constituency, county government of Siaya, and the National government have done little to empower women in artisanal fishing in Asembo Bay, the study also showed that the Centre for Health Solutions was still in existence and was assisting women in Asembo Bay with programs such as health programs, HIV/ AIDs education, and psychological support. The study also indicated that some community-based organizations such as Laven relocated to other places abandoning programs that they were overseeing in Asembo Bay. The findings showed that women faced financial, environmental, and governance challenges. The research proposed the following: the implementation of fisheries funds; the involvement of NGOs; local government, and CBOs in the daily activities in Asembo Bay; and the improvement of the working environment in Asembo Bay.