The Impact of Women Entrepreneurs on National Economic Development in South Africa

This study explored the impact of women entrepreneurs on the economic growth and development of South Africa. Studies have shown that the engagement of women entrepreneurs in small and medium-scale production of goods and services in South Africa has steadily increased. This study employed an interpretive paradigm to engage 30 women entrepreneurs in three focus group interviews of 10 women each from King Cetshwayo District, KwaZulu-Natal province. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from the focus group interviews. The findings revealed that women entrepreneurs are increasing, as many women are being encouraged and motivated by other women to become entrepreneurs. However, women entrepreneurs are limited by many things, including a lack of funds and inadequate technical know-how. The study recommended access to financial grants, loans, modern technologies, and enabling policies to promote women entrepreneurship.