Beyond Financial Capital
Date
2026-02-15
Authors
Journal Title
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Publisher
MUST Journal of Research and Development
Abstract
Government-funded, interest-free youth loan schemes are central
to promoting entrepreneurship and economic inclusion in
Tanzania’s informal sector, yet their broader empowerment
shapes
effects remain underexplored. This study examines how financial
capital
youth empowerment across economic,
psychological, social, and political dimensions. Using a
mixed-methods case study in Arusha City Council, the analysis
draws on survey data from 118 youth entrepreneurs
supplemented by focus group discussions and semi-structured
interviews. The results indicate that although access to loans
facilitated business start-ups and enhanced self-confidence, the
sustainability of these enterprises was impeded by insufficient
training, inadequate institutional follow-up, and restricted market
linkages. Some participants gained social recognition, but
entrenched gender and age hierarchies continued to restrict
decision-making power and political participation. Overall, the
findings underscore the need for integrated interventions that
combine financial support with capacity-building, institutional
accountability, and inclusive governance mechanisms.
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APA