Entrepreneurship amongst Somali migrants in South Africa
Date
2016
Authors
Ibrahim, Bashir Sheikh
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Abstract
This study focused on understanding the drivers of entrepreneurship amongst Somali
migrants in South Africa. An administered survey questionnaire and in-depth case
studies are used to explore the manner in which Somalia migrants, who arrive in
South Africa, as refugees, establish enterprises and thrive in the business
environment despite their uncertain status and limited access to investment capital or
other supportive initiatives. Drawing on the wider available literature a broad
conceptual framework was used to guide and shape the areas of detailed exploration.
These broadly include, a) the socio cultural explanations, b) the push and pull factors
that encourage entrepreneurial activities, and c) the environmental factors (economic
and legal) that facilitate entrepreneurship amongst migrants. At an overall level, there
are no ‘secret’ transferable ingredients for such entrepreneurship. The study reveals
that it is a combination of historic factors and elements of ‘social capital’ that shape
and motivate entrepreneurship activities amongst these migrants. The lessons derived
can and are being be used to inform policy interventions to shape entrepreneurship in
the wider society. However, there has to be appreciation of the unique circumstances
and historic incentive opportunities that drive particular practices. In so doing, the
study concluded on the need for further research in this terrain and the importance of
building a deeper understanding on verifiable and substantive quantitative and
qualitative data.
Keywords: Migrant Entrepreneurship, Social Capital, Small Enterprises, Somali
Refugees, South Africa
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Management, University of the
Witwatersrand, in 50 per cent fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master
of Management (in the field of Public and Development Management).
February, 2016
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Citation
Ibrahim, Bashir Sheikh (2016) Entrepreneurship amongst Somali migrants in South Africa, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg <http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/handle/10539/21496>