Entrepreneurship and SMEs’ Productivity Challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

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Keeping it in the family: exploring Igbo ethnic entrepreneurial behaviour in Nigeria

“…Through the focus group, responses from individual interviews were verified and the possible omission of important Igbo cultural elements assumed (see e.g. Igwe, Madichie and Newbery, 2018; Igwe, Newbery and Icha-Ituma, 2018; Igwe, Onjewu and Nwibo, 2018; Nwankwo et al , 2010). This method allows the researcher to focus on the subject’s individual experience, and so explain the subject’s reality (Morse, 2006; Onwuegbuzie and Leech, 2005; Rolfe, 2006).…”

“…These obstacles add to the usual challenges that entrepreneurs face such as the lack of skilled labour, lack of market information, the time it takes to obtain permits, etc. (Igwe, Onjewu and Nwibo, 2018). Indeed, however, some entrepreneurs prevail despite the barriers and challenges.…”

Market-oriented extension and farming efficiency in small-scale maize farmers: evidence from Northern Vietnam

“…The results suggested that distance to physical infrastructure was not interpreted as farmers' ability to access markets; the sales of farming produce relied on changes in the marketing agents' behaviours. Igwe et al (2018) significantly indicated the enhancement of market orientation leading to the adoption of an entrepreneurial approach and the production of agricultural products commercially by sub-Saharan small-scale farmers.…”

Moderating effects of networks on the relationship between acculturation and entrepreneurial skills development: Evidence from Africans trained in China

“…Most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa are managed by foreign entrepreneurs (Lebanese, Syrians, Pakistanis, Greeks, Portuguese, Indians, and Chinese) (Tshikuku, 2001). Apart from the many constraints and challenges related to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa (lack of government support, paucity of funding, infrastructure problems, absence of training or management and marketing skills, lack of legislation on contracts, property and corruption) (Igwe et al, 2018; Olawale and Garwe, 2010), some other factors are undoubtedly related to culture or even African entrepreneurial abilities (risk propensity, networking, optimism, endurance, perseverance, etc.) (Asongu and Odhiambo, 2019; Igué, 2010; Tshikuku, 2001).…”