Development Of Youth Led Micro and Small Enterprises In Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Abstract

This descriptive study sought to analyze how; finance availability, management skills, technology adoption and laws and regulations affect the development of youth-led MSEs in Kenya, Kirinyaga County. Stratified random sampling was used to select 96 respondents out of a target population of 481. Questionnaires were used to collect data. The multiple regression results depicted the following coefficients; finance 0.018, management 0.114, technology -0.431 and laws and regulations 0.142, at 95 percent confidence level. The study recommends deliberate efforts be made by the Government to sensitize the Youths on availability of Government loans for their uptake. MSE specific courses/trainings should be introduced in secondary schools to prepare the Youths on the necessary business skills needed to start and run a business. The Government should subsidize the cost of technology adoption to enable youths embrace the same. The National and County Governments should endeavor to enact and operationalize laws and regulations which enhance business initiatives. The above recommendations may help the enhancement of development of the initiatives so as to spur the growth of MSEs.