ABSTRACT

This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book presents the experiences of young entrepreneurs living in low-income settlements in Lusaka, Kampala, and Accra reveals how despite living in countries with differing urban characteristics, the types of businesses they establish and the challenges they face are remarkably similar. The urban young entrepreneurs are extremely resourceful in the businesses that they establish, seizing opportunities when they arise and at times turning adversity into opportunity. The young entrepreneurs also feel limited by their lack of education, skills training, and business support services. The insecure and hectic environments in which the young entrepreneurs are working contribute to the insecurity of their businesses. In the case of Nima, the Ghanaian government's slum upgrading programme has resulted in the settlement becoming more attractive to outside investors resulting in some young entrepreneurs being forced out due to rising rents.