Influence of Entrepreneurial Disposition on the Performance of Female-Operated Enterprises in Kenya

Abstract

The main focus of this study is to determine the influence of entrepreneurial disposition on the performance of women operated enterprises in Eldoret Municipality. The study used a survey of 175 female operated enterprises drawn from Huruma, Langas and the Central Business District of Eldoret Municipality.  Quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was collected using interviews of key informants and case studies. It was found that the decision to become entrepreneurs is determined by people other than women themselves.  Women choose businesses which reflect the traditional gender roles. They keep records but lack the necessary skills to enable them to keep adequate records.  The majority of women hold separate business and personal accounts so as not to mix business and personal money and for most of them success in business comes due to personal qualities such as hard work, commitment and dedication to work. Consequently, we conclude that pushed into business by circumstances beyond them, and so to grow their businesses, they need to redefine their situation so that they see business as a means to greater prosperity for them and their families.

Key Words: Business Performance, Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Disposition, Women Entrepreneurs.