Weaving together social capital to empower women artisan entrepreneurs

Abstract

PurposeThis research paper aims to explore the impact artisan cooperatives have upon women employed in Sub-Saharan Africa. Impacts were detailed using the theoretical framework of social capital theory to demonstrate the networks within artisan cooperatives that connect to greater opportunities for social and economic benefits.Design/methodology/approachA phenomenological approach was used for this study based upon the shared experiences of women who were leading artisan cooperatives in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study included semi-structured interviews over Zoom with Chief Entrepreneur Founders of artisan cooperatives located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Documents from the cooperatives were analyzed to triangulate the cooperatives’ current projects and efforts.FindingsThree prevalent themes emerged: (1) key partnerships, (2) benefits of the cooperative and (3) change and growth among the women and communities. Empowerment was felt through both economic and social impacts upon the women.Research limitations/implicationsThis article captures the perspective of the Chief Entrepreneur Founders and their observations and experiences the women shared with them. Emic perspectives from the women who participate in the artisan cooperatives is the focus of future research.Practical implicationsThese social enterprises serve as exemplary models for other cooperatives to provide dignified and sustainable work to impact the lives of women serving in these communities.Originality/valueThis study contributes research on social entrepreneurship within artisan cooperatives. It provides a baseline for further research on the artisan sector specifically for the sustainable development goals of gender equality, decent work and economic growth.

How Does an Artisan Cooperative Impact Food Perception and Consumer Behaviors? A Rapid Rural Appraisal of Women in East Africa

“…Cooperatives were purposively selected from gatekeepers who were Artisan Cooperative Chief Entrepreneur Founders in sub-Saharan Africa. Criteria for selection were (a) must be an artisan cooperative, (b) that focused on women's empowerment, and (c) located in areas with reliance on tourism [17]. Two of the cooperatives were in Kigali, Rwanda, while the other cooperative was in Mombasa, Kenya.…”

“…In total, four separate groups (2 groups at 1 cooperative) of women participated in activities facilitated through Rapid Rural Appraisal Techniques (RRA). The RRA technique is a method used to generate indigenous knowledge in a small amount of time [17]. It is a qualitative methodology conducted by multidisciplinary teams most utilized in assessing problems within agricultural research and development [47].…”

“…It is a qualitative methodology conducted by multidisciplinary teams most utilized in assessing problems within agricultural research and development [47]. Different disciplinary perspectives and methods, such as semi-structured interviews alongside hands-on data-gathering activities, make RRA uniquely situated for international development projects [17]. One aim of RRA is to handle the diverse complexities of different individuals and cultures.…”

“…Exploring how consumer choices are impacted by a steady income and local culture is critical knowledge for change agents and funding agencies implementing international development [15]. An artisan cooperative social network provides opportunities for members to gain new knowledge, skills, and resources [16,17]. This new knowledge impacts women's agency and ability to make food choices for themselves and their families [18,19].The following research objective provides the gestalt of the phenomenological essence of this study: RQ1.…”