Hot issue, and great discussion!
All in Theory
A recent study in Kenya showed the strongest growth among savings groups in urban and peri-urban areas.
Are Self-Help Groups (SHGs) SGs?
Emphatically “yes” - when members write the group rules and follow the principles of fairness and transparency. And, emphatically “no,” - when group are formed for the purposes of commercial or political interests, or for any agenda not created by group members themselves.
We are so certain that interest must be either related to investment or time, that we neglect to see local interpretations of interest as more relevant to local people.
Where the Benefits Come From
The more communities have been given free stuff, the less they’re able to benefit from savings groups.