Indigenous Finance and Women Empowerment: The Digital Transformation of Stokvel Systems in South Africa

Indigenous Finance and Women Empowerment: The Digital Transformation of Stokvel Systems in South Africa

Accra, Ghana and Virtual

This paper explores how the digital transformation of stokvels in South Africa is reshaping women’s empowerment. Stokvels, a form of indigenous savings or rotating savings clubs, have long served as a financial safety net for women, particularly for underserved rural and peri-urban communities. However, with the increasing integration of mobile technologies, fintech platforms, and digital communication tools, these systems are undergoing a significant shift. Drawing on qualitative data from South African women engaged in digitally transformed stokvels, the study examines how digital tools redefine women’s economic and social empowerment. Through the lens of Nego-feminism and Snail-sense feminism, the research highlights how women negotiate and adapt to digital solutions within their stokvel practices. An abductive thematic analysis revealed that, while digital tools enhance transparency and efficiency, there are still barriers to adoption, such as resistance to new technology, digital literacy and trust. The findings contribute to broader conversations about financial inclusion, digital equity and gendered technology adoption in the Global South. The paper concludes with practical recommendations for policymakers and fintech developers on inclusive fintech innovation.