THE ROLES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF WOMEN ASSOCIATIONS IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (A STUDY OF ELEME AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY, RIVERS STATE)

The primary objective of this study was to examine the role and contribution of Women Association in Community Development in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. In carrying out this study, the researcher used survey research method in which structured questionnaire was used as a method of data collection and the use of tables for data presentation and analysis. The target population was women workforce in Eleme from which a sample of 100 was drawn. Out of the 100 questionnaires that were distributed, only 80 was returned. The literature review revealed that women have been seen to be very active in many areas of development in Eleme. Also, as the roles and contribution of women in the society evolves, more opportunities have developed for women to assume leadership roles. Furthermore, women's participation in project conception and identification stages should be deemed imperative. According to the research findings, it identified that the following problems have hindered the smooth exhibition of the role and contributions of women association in community development in Eleme. Inadequate fund, women multiple role, discrimination against women, traditional, cultural and political barriers and women attitude.