Title: Entrepreneurial and cultural dynamics: a gender kaleidoscope of Ugandan microenterprises

Authors: Allan Mulengani Katwalo, Nnamdi O. Madichie

Addresses: Business School, The University of Northampton, Park Campus, Boughton Green Road, Northampton NN2 7AL, UK. ' Business School, University of East London, 4–6 University Way, London E16 2RD, UK

Abstract: This paper discusses the findings of a study conducted in Kampala, Uganda, which evaluated the cultural dynamics at play among microenterprises. A cross section of 120 informal businesses was surveyed between November 2006 and March 2007. A mixture of focus group interviews and self-administered questionnaires which incorporated a combination of closed- and open-ended questions was used. The findings of the study confirm the |waning role of cultural dynamics| especially when considered along gender lines. The paper argues that culture alone cannot fully capture any real or perceived gender differences in the ownership and management of microenterprises, but that there exists a complex mix of entrepreneurial and cultural dynamics. Therefore governments as well as other funding agencies should realise that gender-specific enterprise support is fast losing its relevance. Men and women equally require appropriate enablers for them to start up and develop and grow their enterprises.

Keywords: microenterprises; cultural dynamics; entrepreneurial dynamics; gender; Kampala; Uganda; entrepreneurship; female entrepreneurs; women entrepreneurs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESB.2008.017307

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, 2008 Vol.5 No.3/4, pp.337 - 348

Published online: 24 Feb 2008 *

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