Exploring the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

The South African government acknowledges SMEs as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. However, SMEs in Gauteng are having trouble sustaining themselves in the current environment due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The economy has experienced a downturn, affecting the population's living standards. Poverty, inequality, and unemployment are all rising, a trend made worse by the Covid-19 pandemic and its economic effects. The study's primary objective is to explore the influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Gauteng, South Africa. The four secondary objectives contribute to the achievement of the fundamental objectives. The literature review in Chapter 2 provided the necessary context for conducting the empirical investigation on the influence of Covid-19 on SMEs. This study employs a qualitative research methodology with an exploratory research approach. Data from 10 participants were gathered through semi-structured interviews. These ten participants are SME entrepreneurs from Gauteng provinces in South Africa. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Based on participant interview transcripts, four themes were established through the qualitative interview, with eight sub-themes emerging from the main themes. The study concluded with a summary of key findings on the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Gauteng. The study made practical recommendations on how SME entrepreneurs can remain resilient and grow during a disruption. The study also suggested future studies that can build on from this one.