Effect of Gender Norms on Utilisation of Loans Borrowed from Micro Finance Bank and Livelihood Outcome in Kitui Kenya

This study aimed at investigating the intervening effect of gender norms on utilisation of loans borrowed from Sidian bank and livelihood outcome. The study specifically set out to assess the effects of the borrowed money on the household livelihoods of the women and men who borrowed money from Sidian Bank. It used a convergent research design and a mixed-technique approach. It focused on borrowers who had taken loans from Sidian Bank along with their spouses, government officials, and Sidian Bank. There were 324 borrowers, consisting of 51 men and 273 women. Systematic and purposive samplings were used. Data was collected through a hybrid questionnaire, including open and close-ended questions, an observation schedule, and interview guides. Additionally, secondary data was gathered from various sources such as literature, articles, newspapers, and microfinance bank websites. Quantitative data was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Program for Social Scientists (SPSS), while qualitative data was presented in narrative form. The research revealed a gender dimension in the effects of the loans. The effect of the loans on women’s household livelihoods differed from that of men. The study concluded that due to the differences in utilisation of loans the effects were gendered. This was mainly because they didn’t invest in income-generating projects and faced difficulties in loan repayments, sometimes leading to the loss of household items. Considering these findings, the study proposed that microfinance trainers modify their training methods to address the issue of utilization, considering gender differentials and ensuring more effective utilization of loans for all borrowers.