Women's empowerment and mental well-being: A qualitative study in Rural Kenya

Background: Perinatal mental health is a significant concern globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Women's mental well-being is essential for managing daily stresses and positively contributing to their communities. Empowering women can enhance their health and that of their families. Objective: This paper explores how women's empowerment(WE) in rural Kenyan communities affects their maternal mental well-being and discusses the challenges and lessons learned against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An ethnographic approach that involved a four-month participant observation of 20 women in Kakamega County, Kenya, conducted from March to October 2022. The target women were pregnant or had a child <1 year old. Additionally, two focus group discussions were conducted with men and women from the community to explore experiences related to women's empowerment, challenges, and coping strategies. Results: The relationship between women's empowerment and mental wellbeing is cyclical. Access to resources enhanced agency, self-efficacy, and autonomy, while poor mental well-being diminished these aspects. Maternal stress was caused by financial constraints, socio-cultural barriers, limited decision-making, inadequate spousal support, and lack of social support. During the perinatal period, limited economic opportunities left women vulnerable to food insecurity and family conflicts. Participating in savings groups (chama) and individual secret savings (income hiding) enhanced women's agency and autonomy. Their empowerment efforts were, however, affected by limited financial support, sociocultural barriers, and the risk of domestic violence, negatively affecting their well-being. Conclusion: Women's empowerment can enhance perinatal mental health outcomes. Empowerment programs should promote perinatal mental health and involve spousal and family support for improved maternal well-being.