Collective action in the form of self-help (SHGs) using microfinance has been increasingly hailed for its positive economic impact and its empowerment of women. Literature indicated that women who partake in SHG activities are more empowered in terms of economic independence than the non-SHG female cohort from the same community. This paper investigates through narrative inquiry the impacts of SHG membership on women’s decision making in familial expenditure, children welfare, and freedom of movement. Results indicate positive inclinations and the narratives support the SHG program as effectively empowering.

KEYWORDS: self-help group, economic empowerment, decision making