SOCIAL CAPITAL AMONG WIDOWS IN STOKVELS: AN EASTERN CAPE STORY

Stokvel-preneurship is a type of social enterprise that promotes the development of social capital through the actions of a group of individuals such as widows. This study investigates the ways through which stokvels acquire social capital for widows involved in project-based social enterprises in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The construct was tested using the positivism paradigm. Statistical analyses revealed that the construct's internal consistency and convergent validity were exceptional. The Squared Multiple Correlations further substantiated the positive influence of participation in social enterprises on desirable outcomes. These findings hold substantial implications for policymakers, social organisations, and communities seeking to support widows in the Eastern Cape Province and beyond. Empowering widows through the promotion of social enterprises can enhance their economic prospects and overall well-being, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. It is imperative to point out that social enterprises are one of the interventions in supporting widows' economic empowerment.