The contribution of pathways to sustainability of women's projects at Phuthiatsana Community Council in Berea, Lesotho
Loading...
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
National University of Lesotho
Abstract
This study investigates the contribution of Pathways to Sustainable Livelihoods
Projects (PSLP) and its influence on the livelihoods of rural women, with a focus on
their capacity to promote long-term economic inclusion and resilience. Microfinance
has been widely recognised as a tool for poverty alleviation, providing women with
access to financial capital to start or expand income-generating activities. However,
questions remain regarding the extent to which these initiatives deliver lasting
benefits beyond the initial stages of funding. Using a qualitative research design and
interviews with microfinance beneficiaries to assess business and livelihood
stability, the study found that microfinance programmes significantly contribute to
increased productivity, income diversification, and household welfare. However,
sustainability is often hindered by factors such as limited access, inadequate business
training, and insufficient resource availability. The research emphasises the need for
integrated approaches that pair financial support with capacity building, market
linkage development, and value addition strategies. By addressing these gaps,
microfinance initiatives can move beyond short-term income generation to create
enduring, self-sustaining livelihoods for rural women and recommend better ways
of implementation that address needs of Phuthiatsana community.