Poor women and their Social Capital: An Exploratory Study of the Village Saving and Loan Groups’ Contribution to Women’s Empowerment in Ethiopia, West Harergie

Abstract

Village savings and Loan groups are increasing as a source of socio-economic empowerment for poor women in Ethiopia. However, saving and loan services alone are not sufficient as the status and participation of women in various aspects is very limited. Little is known how the saving and loan groups help women’s decision making power and their participation both in the family and community, and how did village saving and loan groups help women their social functioning. Hence, the purpose of the study was to explore women‘s participation and the empowerment of their social capital. Thirty five women who were members of VSLG were identified by purposive sampling, and then interviewed. A descriptive qualitative design was followed and data were presented descriptively. The following major themes were identified from the analysis of study: VSLG contribute positively on the social capital, Parents sent their children to school, enhance the decision making power of women, economic empowerment of poor women, harmony with in the family, improvement of saving culture, ensures security, change in social status, increase in social interaction enhanced self-confidence and hope of a better future. The study can be shared with similar women and their families, and social work professionals. The study concludes by making implications as to how the insights gained could be used to improve in the future.