Exploring the benefits of Social Entrepreneurship in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

South Africa, like other Africa countries, is experiencing high rates of unemployment and poverty. In response, the government has introduced various economic and social assistance programmes to uplift marginalised communities and poor people. However, assistance by government is often not sufficient to address all socio-economic issues. As a result, the private sector, through businesses, is undertaking various social projects to help the government meet the needs of poor people. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the practice of social entrepreneurship, in particular how it is practiced, and how it contributes to addressing societal problems such as poverty. The study was in nature a qualitative research study, and employed a case study design. Through the purposive sampling technique, 16 individuals were sampled, drawn from companies that have interests in or that practice social entrepreneurship in the South African context. The data was collected through online one-on-one interviews, while the data was analysed using a thematic analysis method. The study found that social entrepreneurship is a tool for sustainable development, and that it does have an impact in helping decrease poverty, create employment and assist communities. However, several challenges, such as funding, lack of resources and government support, and absence of policy direction are obstacles facing the social entrepreneur on a daily basis. Some of the recommendations are that a central hub is established, for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue, which may lead to policy development that will assist the social entrepreneur, and for learning from other, more experienced social entrepreneurs