The impact of social enterprise on labour market structure: a case study of social enterprises in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Understanding and explaining the relationship between social enterprise and labour market structure across the world remains a significant challenge and has raised intense scholarly debate. A number of suggestions have been offered on how social enterprises have the impact on labour market structure. In line with Giddens' (1984) theory structuration and conceptual framework, this empirical study sought to analyse the extent to which social enterprise has an impact on poverty and the inequalities of people living in Nairobi, Kenya. A mixed method of research was used in the study. The findings of the study indicate that social enterprises have significant impact on the labour market structures related to livelihoods, market access, training and attitudes. On the other hand, they face challenges in stabilizing incomes and reducing gender wage inequality among their beneficiaries. In addition, their use of financing to increase market access is somewhat ineffective. Social enterprises also have limited impact with regards to formalization and fair trade.

Keywords: Agency, employment, impact, labour market, Nairobi, social enterprises, structuration