Exploring firm-community level trust in rural Africa through the lens of oil companies' corporate social responsibilities. Issue 3 (15th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meribe, Nnaemeka Chidiebere; Ayentimi, Desmond Tutu; Oke, Benson Reuben; Adonteng-Kissi, Obed
• Is Part Of: Society and business review. Volume 16:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 357
• Page End: 373
• Publication Date: 2021-02-15
• Subjects: Social responsibility -- Stakeholder analysis -- Corporate social responsibility -- Trust -- Oil companies -- Rural Africa -- Community level; Social responsibility of business -- Periodicals; Industries -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 658.408
• DOI: 10.1108/SBR-04-2020-0059
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-5680

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper aims to explore firm-community level trust in rural Africa through the lens of oil companies' corporate social responsibilities (CSR). Design/methodology/approach: This paper is grounded on a case study of local communities and other stakeholders in a Nigerian community exploring the underlying triggers of distrust and trust between oil companies and rural communities through the lens of CSR. Findings: This exploratory study found the presence of high-level firm-community expectation differentials, pointing to considerable mistrust between local communities and oil companies' CSR initiatives. Practical implications: The local communities tend to feel oil companies attempt to secure social licence to operate by engaging in CSR initiatives but not to genuinely improve their welfare. There is, therefore, a superficial effort or incentive for oil companies to engage in CSR initiatives in rural Africa. Originality/value: The paper highlights the notion that building a community-driven CSR requires a partnership in which local communities share legitimacy with government agencies and oil companies in influencing CSR initiatives. This represents the most effective way of enhancing firm-community level trust and social legitimacy in rural Africa.