African Journal of Women’s Studies | 01 August 2007
Economic Empowerment through Savings Groups Among Women in Kenyan Informal Settlements,
J, a, y, n, e, B, u, r, n, s, -, T, a, y, l, o, r, ,, K, a, m, a, u, W, a, m, b, u, i
Abstract
Savings groups have emerged as a significant tool for economic empowerment among women in informal settlements across Kenya. The study employed qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews with 50 women members of savings groups in selected informal settlements. Ethnographic observations and document analysis were also conducted to enrich the understanding of group activities and outcomes. Findings indicate that savings groups have significantly improved financial stability for participants, with an average increase in monthly income reported by nearly half of the respondents (45%). The study underscores the crucial role of savings groups as a platform for women's economic empowerment and highlights their potential to address poverty and inequality. Policy makers should support further development and expansion of such groups, while also encouraging financial literacy training to enhance group effectiveness and sustainability.