Entrepreneurship and Kenya's Informal Economy

This book offers a pioneering analysis of Jua Kali (a Kiswahili term meaning “under the hot sun,” referring to Kenya’s informal sector) artisans in Kenya, elucidating their vital role in the informal economy through the lens of social networks and entrepreneurial performance. By employing a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach, it explores artisans’ lived experiences and examines how social network attributes shape the success of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The book traces the evolution of Jua Kali from the 1970s to the present, situating these enterprises within Kenya’s socioeconomic landscape.

Readers will discover how artisans utilise networks to overcome constraints such as limited capital, restricted market access, and regulatory hurdles. The chapters delve into the dynamics of network size, diversity, strength, and structure, revealing their impact on entrepreneurial success. The authors provide a comprehensive framework that links network attributes to the performance of SMMEs, offering insights into trust, collaboration, and market opportunities. This work advances debates in entrepreneurship and development studies, presenting actionable strategies for fostering sustainable growth in Kenya’s informal sector.

Academics, policymakers, and development practitioners will find this book invaluable. It is essential reading for those interested in entrepreneurship, microenterprises, and social networks, offering a unique perspective on grassroots innovation and economic independence in developing economies.