Abstract

Women are acknowledged to play an important role in society, their contribution is enormous. Empowering women is seen as a prerequisite to reduce poverty, improve the quality of family life hence create a cohesive society as women undertake critical roles in the society. Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs) are among the informal social protection mechanisms in emerging nations including Malawi. Social relationship plays an important role in ROSCAs where interaction between members of the association makes it function effectively. ROSCAs, rely on social networks to facilitate credit and financing needs for individuals and small businesses. The main purpose of this study was to examine how participation in Rotating Savings and Credit Associations affect women’s social relations in their communities. The specific objectives of this study were firstly, to determine the criteria for membership of rotating savings and credit association; secondly, to explore the motivations for joining rotating savings and credit association; thirdly, to establish the extent to which members interact beyond regular meetings; and lastly, to assess whether the relationship of exchange among members extends beyond the group’s main agenda. The study employed a qualitative approach with a focus on Zomba. The study found that networking leads to socializing that creates a feeling of oneness in the group where individuals are kind and generous with each other. In addition to this, they have helped in teaching women how to be more understanding to everyone they meet. Indeed it is the informal features of ROSCAs that attract and keep individuals to participate in ROSCA.

More details

School	: School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Issued Date	: 2025

Download full document