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COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Implications on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Operations in Zambia

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  • Clement Mwaanga
  • James Mulenga
  • Mary Lubinda
  • Moulen Siame
  • Kunda Kaliba-Chishimba
  • Mulenga Chonzi Mulenga
  • Chilala Sheila Kafula

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down the operations of enterprises of different sizes and types in different ways. The most affected are the SMEs operating in various sectors of the economy. This study sort to investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the operations of SMEs in the food and accommodation industry and provide policy recommendations to the government on supportive measures for SMEs. We employed an exploratory methodology with a critical review of available literature, including policy documents, research papers, and relevant literature to the sector Data was collected from four provinces using a survey method, and analysis was conducted through descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that most of the SME's monthly revenues have gone down by more than 50 percent and they are facing challenges such as failing to pay workers, restricted number of customers, and high cost of inputs. Besides, 21 percent of the SMEs reported improved adherence to health guidelines as one of the mitigating factors to minimise the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, only 4 percent of the SMEs have accessed financial support from Government but their businesses have remained the same. Based on these findings, policy recommendations have been made to help SMEs survive during the crisis.

Suggested Citation

  • Clement Mwaanga & James Mulenga & Mary Lubinda & Moulen Siame & Kunda Kaliba-Chishimba & Mulenga Chonzi Mulenga & Chilala Sheila Kafula, 2021. "COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Implications on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Operations in Zambia," Journal of Business Administration Research, Journal of Business Administration Research, Sciedu Press, vol. 10(1), pages 1-32, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:jfr:jbar11:v:10:y:2021:i:1:p:32
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    Cited by:

    1. Irene Mpulubusi Chimoga, DBA, 2023. "Exploring Sustainable Entrepreneur Creativity in Post Covid 19 Pandemic: A Case Study of Some Selected Businesses in Zambia," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 7(2), pages 1417-1426, February.
    2. Liard-Muriente, Carlos F., 2023. "Adaptations, Female Labour Participation, and Innovation among SMEs in Zambia during Covid-19 Pandemic," African Journal of Economic Review, African Journal of Economic Review, vol. 11(4), September.

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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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