Role of Social Capital in Community Development

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to explore the role of social capital in community development. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of social capital in community development. Preliminary empirical review revealed that social networks, trust, and collective action played crucial roles in enhancing community well-being and resilience. Through empirical research conducted across various contexts, it was found that social capital served as a catalyst for community empowerment, fostering cooperation and mutual support among residents. The study highlighted the importance of context-specific factors in shaping the relationship between social capital and community development, emphasizing the need for targeted investments in social capital-building initiatives to promote inclusive and sustainable development. Overall, the findings underscored the vital role of social capital in driving positive change within communities, providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Capital theory, Community Development theory and Network theory may be used to anchor future studies on the role of social capital in community development. The study contributed to theoretical advancements by enhancing comprehension of how social relationships influence development outcomes, refining existing theories, and highlighting the interplay between social capital and socio-economic factors. Practically, it guided practitioners in fostering social networks, promoting civic engagement, and tailoring interventions to community needs. From a policy perspective, it influenced the design of development policies by leveraging social capital for inclusive and sustainable development, promoting social cohesion, and addressing structural barriers. Overall, recognizing social capital's importance underscored its potential as a catalyst for positive change within communities.