Entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation : a tale of black African women in Msunduzi Municipality, South Africa

Abstract

This study examined the extent to which black African women benefit from the existing government strategies to support local entrepreneurs in advancing their businesses at Msunduzi local municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province. Entrepreneurship is believed to be desirable to address the poverty and unemployment levels in societies. A qualitative research method approach was employed, and data were drawn using a focus group discussion from black African women within Msunduzi municipality and a semi-structured interview from the government officials. Key findings from this study draw attention to various aspects of concern for policy makers regarding the limited support provided by the government to emancipate African female entrepreneurs at Msunduzi municipality. The study’s findings contribute to the existing knowledge of women empowerment through entrepreneurship, gender mainstreaming, and serve as a guide for policy makers and academics who are in pursuit of various developmental goals.