Track: Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Objective: This study research analyses the challenges faced by the Burundian economy from entrepreneurial perspective and proposed a way forward to deal with the above challenges.

Design/methodology/approach: In order to conduct the research, a qualitative and quantitative study was conducted. It consists of a thorough literature review focusing on entrepreneurship in Burundi and economic performance of the country. Further, a survey of 25 of individuals acquainted with the issues of economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in Burundi was conducted.

Findings: The results show that  the usual economic factors determining growth in Burundi are endogenous to political objectives, suggesting that politics explains the dismal performance of the Burundian economy. This finding limits the relevance of textbook models of growth relying on the assumption of a competitive resource allocation environment in a country or region.

Originality: Previous researches were focusing lonely on the failure of the economic performance and entrepreneurship of Burundi.  Rather, this study links both variables, and look at the importance of the development of sustainable entrepreneurship through reverse economic policies. 

Recommendations: The study recommends that qualified managers rather than politicians’ cronies must run the economy, with priority being given to investment projects in the country. The study also recommends that the economic performance will not improve unless the political system is modernised from a more open and accountable regime. Finally, the study highlights that the Burundian economic growth failure can be reversed if some structural problems are adjusted and bottom of the pyramid strategies are identifies and implemented.

Key words: SE (sustainable entrepreneurship, Burundi, economic growth.