The roles and contributions of women to the health of their families and household economics in rural areas in the district of Mbe, Cameroon

Abstract

This study examined the roles and contributions of women in family health and household economics in the rural Mbe district of Cameroon. The study employed a qualitative approach, descriptive statistics, surveys, and purposive sampling to select 25 households across five villages in Mbe. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. Thematic coding was used to analyze the data, revealing nuanced insights into women's multifaceted roles. The findings indicated that women in rural Mbe were integral to their families' well-being, actively managing childcare, early education, and minor illnesses through a combination of traditional remedies and modern healthcare practices. Economically, they played crucial roles in farming, small-scale trading, and financial decision-making, significantly contributing to household income and resilience. Additionally, women influenced local governance through active participation in community organizations, shaping decisions that fostered communal cohesion. This study contributes uniquely to the existing literature by highlighting the intersection of women's evolving economic roles and their impact on community decision-making in rural Cameroon. Empowering these women through targeted resources and policies is both urgent and essential for advancing family health, economic stability, and sustainable rural development.