 SaveAct's strategy is based on extensive research around social and economic empowerment experiences locally and internationally. It seeks to build on these experiences. The model itself acknowledges the importance of local knowledge (e.g. cultural practices related to stokvels) and capabilities of the poor. It gives particular attention to three dimensions, each seen as complementary to each other. These are:
- the development of financial services controlled and managed by the poor
- attention to life skills to improve capacity of people to plan and act on their situation
- the development of capacity to engage in enterprise activity or more sustainable livelihood strategies.
This triad (see below) of activities makes for a powerful combination that will enable people to better secure their livelihoods.
SaveAct believes that it is essential for the poor to organise and develop collective action to secure their rights. Even where democracy is present there is a tendency for poor and vulnerable groups to be ignored. There is an absence of social and economic justice. These groups need 'a voice' that will ensure that they too can secure the resources to 'climb out of poverty', influence policies and hold government accountable. This will be enabled through a combination of promoting contact and learning exchanges between groups, and through the initiative of SCGs themselves.
Captions for Images
Top - Xolile Gule of Funding Development Services and Mandla Sindane, a training specialist, during a Training of Trainers session in preparation for implementation of the Isiqalo Enterprise Training Programme, October 2007.
Middle - Residents from Ongeluksnek on the Lesotho border, participating in life skills training in financial management, October, 2007. A household budget is being prepared.
Bottom - A member of Amandlaethu (Our Power) SCG in Nhlazuka depositing her savings during a savings meeting.
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