EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES: A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP APPROACH TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN KIBERA, NAIROBI, KENYA.

Abstract

This study explores the role of social entrepreneurship in addressing the affordable housing crisis in Kibera, Nairobi, Kenya, with a focus on empowering communities through innovative, sustainable and inclusive approaches. Guided by social entrepreneurship theory, social capital theory and Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the research aimed to achieve its overarching objective: to investigate how social entrepreneurship can empower communities and facilitate access to affordable housing. Specifically, it examined the influence of social financial strategies, the contribution of social service provision, the integration of environmental approaches and the moderating impact of government policy on affordable housing initiatives. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. Data was collected from Kibera residents, social entrepreneurs, government officials and community leaders, offering a comprehensive perspective on the housing challenges faced by low-income communities. The findings reveal that social entrepreneurship significantly enhances access to affordable housing by leveraging on social financial approaches, such as impact investing and green finance and incorporating sustainable environmental practices, including renewable energy integration and climate-resilient designs. Additionally, social services, such as housing counseling and education programs, were found to strengthen community empowerment and housing accessibility. Despite these advancements, the study identified barriers such as limited government support, inadequate funding and cultural resistance to adopting innovative practices. The study highlights the need for robust policies to support public-private partnerships, incentivize sustainable housing practices and increase awareness of the benefits of social entrepreneurship. This research further provides actionable insights for stakeholders, including policymakers, social entrepreneurs and development practitioners to develop transformative strategies for equitable and sustainable housing solutions in Kibera and similar urban contexts globally.