Abstract:
Increased economic crisis and the rise in poverty levels has prompted a global
debate on the best model to eradicate poverty. Although some scholars have
hinted at Social Solidarity Economy (SSE) approach as a solution, there is
scarcity of supporting empirical evidence. This study contributes to this debate
by exploring the contribution of SSE to poverty eradication. The study was
carried out in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya following a cross-sectional research
design. The target population were all the people who have joined socialeconomic associations to improve their economic status. 384 respondents
provided views on their economic status before and after joining an association.
The study was anchored on epistemological SSE theory that prioritizes ethical
and value-based economy placing members at the center of decision-making.
Simple random sampling technique was used to select respondents. Quantitative
and qualitative data were collected through survey method. The data were
analyzed using binary logistic regression while qualitative data were analyzed
through content analysis technique. The findings show that SSE was statistically
significant to poverty eradication (P< 0.05). In addition, the study found that
co-operatives were much more statistically significant compared to other forms
of associations. The study highlights the importance of co-operatives and other
forms of social economic associations. The findings shall be useful to various
stakeholders
