This study explores how social capital and socioeconomic variations in slum areas influence the fostering of social trust and confidence in the institutions. Through a multivariate analysis using 497 households in slum areas of Addis Ababa, the paper investigates how social capital dimensions and human and economic characteristics of the households are related to social trust and confidence in the institutions. It is shown that social trust and confidence in institutions are highly associated with increased participation in local associations and pattern of reciprocity among inhabitants. These findings provide qualified support for the systemic model of local social organization but challenge theories of social disorganization that predict lower levels of social capital in impoverished communities.
Community-based development strategies are gaining credibility and acceptance in development circles. In parallel, the concept of social capital and the role of supportive non-governmental organizations are receiving attention as key catalytic elements in encouraging and assisting community-based initiatives. In this paper, the willingness of the households to participate in community development has been examined. Through a multivariate analysis using 497 households in Addis Ababa, the author assessed how social capital dimensions and socio-economic characteristics of the households are related to willingness of the household to participate in community development. Willingness is highly associated with increased participation in local associations; trust in the community and pattern of reciprocity among inhabitants. These findings provide qualified support that considering these local associations in partnership could bring sustainability in urban development.
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