ABSTRACT
The contribution of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in generating employment and income has become increasingly recognised not only in Southern Africa but also around the world. In most developing countries these contributions appear to have been increasing over time. To some observers this is an encouraging sign; markets are working, people are finding opportunities to participate in ways that empower and nourish many others, particularly including those that are otherwise most disadvantaged. To other observers, however, this increase in the numbers of people engaged in micro and small enterprises is a sign of failure of the economy to provide productive jobs; people are forced to take refuge in activities that provide only minimal, subsistence support. Sorting out these differences is of great importance to those who wish to address the problems of poverty and growth.
