Unlocking the Myth to Sustainable Development of SMES in Uganda: A Review of the Entrepreneurial Resilience Approach

  • Katumba Ismael Makerere University
  • Evelyne Chilonge University of South Africa
  • Kato Ahmed Idi University of South Africa
Keywords: Entrepreneurial Resilience, Small-Medium Enterprise Sustainability, Ugandan Government Initiatives on SME Sustainability
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Abstract

The study delivered a concise impression of entrepreneurial resilience (ER) and sustainable progress of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Uganda by emphasising critical factors that influence entrepreneurial resilience. It partially addresses certain deficiencies in the current empirical and theoretical literature. This research project analysed the justification of ER on the sustainable development of SMEs in Uganda. The research employed a quantitative technique utilising a semi-structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale, administered to 380 entrepreneurs and managers recruited from the districts of Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono in Uganda. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS in conjunction with Smart PLS was applied for analysis of the results. The findings of the study showed a significant positive relationship between entrepreneurial resilience and the sustainability of SMEs. This study meaningfully augments the prevailing knowledge base by availing a streamlined framework for SME resilience in Uganda, which will help key stakeholders such as the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), Uganda Small Scale Association (USSA), and numerous other private and governmental entities. The study will support policymakers and consultants in formulating tailored rules of procedures to augment SME resilience and foster their development in Uganda. Finally, the study was self-funded, and the researcher does not have any conflict of interest

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Published
3 January, 2026
How to Cite
Ismael, K., Chilonge, E., & Idi, K. (2026). Unlocking the Myth to Sustainable Development of SMES in Uganda: A Review of the Entrepreneurial Resilience Approach. East African Journal of Arts and Social Sciences, 9(1), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.37284/eajass.9.1.4286