Support initiatives by agricultural cooperatives in facilitating women's recovery from the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic in Kajiado county.

Abstract

• This study investigated the impact of healthcare interventions by agricultural cooperatives on women's recovery during the post-COVID-19 period in Kajiado County, Kenya. It explored how agricultural cooperatives address women's recovery in the post-COVID-19 period in Kajiado County. It examined support initiatives for women's recovery, internal healthcare mechanisms targeting women, and cooperative-led interventions in post-COVID-19 recovery. Supported by Social Capital Theory and Empowerment theory, the study focused on Kajiado County. Kajiado County was selected for its cultural diversity and economic activities. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study included a sample size of 373 respondents, members of agricultural cooperatives. The qualitative phase involved interviews and focus groups, while the quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaires. This study employed a combination of stratified random sampling and purposive sampling. Findings were presented through tables, aiming to inform government regulators in policy formulation. The study concluded that women have largely positive perceptions of the healthcare interventions offered by agricultural cooperatives. The findings also suggested a strong positive correlation between women's experiences with healthcare initiatives and their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The study further concluded that logistical and cultural barriers remain significant obstacles to women's access to healthcare services provided by agricultural cooperatives. Recommending that agricultural cooperatives must develop and implement robust communication strategies to bridge the gap between awareness and actual engagement in healthcare programs for women. The study encourages policymakers to work alongside cooperatives to broaden these programs, create accessible healthcare models that consider rural challenges, and overcome existing logistical and cultural obstacles. By building such collaborative frameworks, these efforts can enhance women's resilience, support sustainable recovery, and contribute to enduring improvements in community health and economic resilience in rural areas.