The role of small scale enterprises in poverty alleviation: an exploratory survey

Small-scale enterprises and poverty alleviation are dynamic areas that draw attention of majority especially development practitioners. SSEs create job opportunities and income to both employer and employee and through this poverty is alleviated. Over years, poverty has remained deep severe. This situation triggered the researcher to carry out a study to examine the role of small-scale enterprises in poverty alleviation. To achieve this objective, three hypotheses were advanced to study the situation. The hypotheses rested on income and employment on one hand, and on the other hand rested on poverty indications which includes education, health and food adequacy. The research findings indicated that SSEs play a big role in poverty alleviation because majority of respondents spend the income generated from SSEs in poverty eradications i.e. education, health and food. Employment and income have increased, the finding revealed. In view of the empirical evidence and conclusion given, a number of recommendations have been put forward and areas suitable for future research in this have been identified.