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<p>Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) are established to enable members to access resources, share experiences, and build social networks, contributing to the social and economic wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. Yet, limited research has examined how the social capital embedded in SHGs supports community development. This study investigates the role of women’s SHGs in fostering social capital in Wa Metropolis, Ghana, using a qualitative approach with 98 participants. Thematic analysis was carried out and the results revealed that SHGs strengthen social ties across diverse backgrounds, promoted leadership and personal development, and functioned as informal safety nets during crises. Participation in SHGs was associated with enhanced trust, cooperation, and a sense of unity, facilitating networks that extend beyond familial and immediate social circles. The study also identified challenges, including financial constraints, interpersonal tensions, communication gaps, structural limitations, and socio-cultural barriers, which undermined trust and cohesion. Policy recommendations include implementing clear repayment rules, peer accountability, and structured support mechanisms to sustain SHG effectiveness.</p>

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“Together We Lift, The Stronger We Become”: The Role of Women’s Self-Help Groups in Building Trust and Community Solidarity in Wa Metropolis

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年7月24日

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  • Mohammed Awal Abubakari,
  • Moses Naiim Fuseini,
  • Musah Ibrahim Mordzeh-Ekpampo,
  • Mueen Abdulai,
  • Nuhu Ismail

摘要

Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) are established to enable members to access resources, share experiences, and build social networks, contributing to the social and economic wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. Yet, limited research has examined how the social capital embedded in SHGs supports community development. This study investigates the role of women’s SHGs in fostering social capital in Wa Metropolis, Ghana, using a qualitative approach with 98 participants. Thematic analysis was carried out and the results revealed that SHGs strengthen social ties across diverse backgrounds, promoted leadership and personal development, and functioned as informal safety nets during crises. Participation in SHGs was associated with enhanced trust, cooperation, and a sense of unity, facilitating networks that extend beyond familial and immediate social circles. The study also identified challenges, including financial constraints, interpersonal tensions, communication gaps, structural limitations, and socio-cultural barriers, which undermined trust and cohesion. Policy recommendations include implementing clear repayment rules, peer accountability, and structured support mechanisms to sustain SHG effectiveness.