Driving Change: How Self-Help Groups Empower Women for Social and Economic Transformation in Ilala Municipality, Tanzania

Mary Malunde Watugulu
Institute of Adult Education, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Email: marywatugulu@hotmail.com

Abstract: The study explored how self-help groups empower women for social and economic transformation in Ilala Municipality, Tanzania. The study employed a qualitative research approach with a sample size of 20 participants obtained through a purposive sampling technique in which 16 women from self-help groups (SHGs), 2 facilitators of self-help groups, and 2 representatives from financial institutions that offer loans or financial services to self-help groups SHGs participated in the study. Data was collected through interviews and focus group discussions and was analysed thematically. The findings of the study revealed various social and economic transformations namely increased social capital and community networking, empowerment in leadership and decision-making, improved social status and gender equality, enhanced social support and solidarity, improved financial literacy and independence, access to microfinance and income-generating opportunities, economic resilience through savings and credit systems and economic resilience through savings and credit systems. Therefore, the study recommended government authorities to expand training programs focused on financial literacy, business management, and leadership skills to empower women. Moreover, local governments and development partners should work to improve access to microfinance and create more opportunities for SHGs to engage with financial institutions, ensuring women can better leverage savings and credit systems for entrepreneurship and economic stability.