Exploring factors affecting the success of women entrepreneurship in Namibia: The case of women entrepreneurs in Windhoek
Over the past decades, the number of women venturing into business has exponentially grown, especially developing economies such as Namibia. The challenges such female entrepreneurs face has also equally been rising over the years. The purpose of the study was to explore factors affecting the success of women entrepreneurs in Windhoek (Namibia). To accomplish this, the following objectives were considered: to identify the factors affecting the success of women entrepreneurship; to determine the factors contributing to the success of women entrepreneurs; to establish the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and to ultimately establish the strategies to improve the welfare and development of women entrepreneurs in Windhoek. The researcher used the descriptive - exploratory research design, meaning that a mixed method research approach was employed for this study, through the use of the self-administered questionnaires (60) and the semi structured interviews. Results from the study indicated that the success of women entrepreneurship in Namibia is hindered by factors such as; gender stereotyping of women, lack of marketing skills, lack of government support, lack of knowledge, and lack of capital, among others. The study concluded that human capital, marketing, technology and speed with which to the market are the major factors behind the success of women entrepreneurs in Windhoek. The study thus recommended the support from fmancial institutions (banks and discount houses) for start-up capital, and government support (educating women in technology, skills and expertise), as well as support from spouses as these could create some success stories in entrepreneurship. There, also, is need for the government to be involved to make women entrepreneurs successful through business education, and supportive policies that make it easier for them to access fmances
Namibia, Female entrepreneurs, Windhoek (Namibia), Challenges, Welfare and development, Strategies, University of Namibia
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