SOCIO-CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT AND PERFORMANCE OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN NIGERIA: MODERATING ROLE OF ENTREPRENEURIAL SELF-EFFICACY

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effect of socio-cultural environment on the
performance of women entrepreneurs in Zamfara State, Nigeria, and the
moderating role of entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Survey research was employed,
collecting responses from 372 women entrepreneurs in the state. Questionnaire
was used as the instrument for data collection and were distributed using simple
random sampling technique. The results showed that the socio-cultural
environment has a negative and significant effect on the performance of women
entrepreneurs, while self-efficacy has a positive and significant effect.
Furthermore, it was found that self-efficacy significantly moderated the
relationship between the socio-cultural environment and the performance of
women entrepreneurs in the state. It concluded that Zamfara State, Nigeria
underscores the significant influence of the socio-cultural environment on women
entrepreneurs' performance, demonstrating a detrimental impact on their
businesses. The study recommends the development and implementation of
targeted support and training programs for women entrepreneurs in Zamfara
State, Nigeria, with a specific focus on enhancing their entrepreneurial self-
efficacy. This could include workshops, mentorship programs, and educational
initiatives aimed at boosting women's confidence, skills, and belief in their ability
to succeed as entrepreneurs.