ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to examine the nature of the resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem among the people of Kwawu in Ghana through the lens of complexity science. The study assesses how the Kwawu people have progressed in terms of nurturing a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem through a complex network of agents, community resources, assets, and support systems that help entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed. Thus, the chapter tries to shed light on the question how the Kwawu people were able to unconsciously make more efficient use of their natural resources for centuries, therefore, acting as unlikely innovators or ‘positive deviants’. The study is qualitative in nature and employs an inductive and interpretive approach to data collection and analysis, focusing on how the Kwawu complex, resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem is constructed and enhanced sustainably. It presents findings on three factors that influence interactions and interrelations emergent ecosystems. These are: (a) durable enabling entrepreneurial culture; (b) an interdependent learning cycle, which consists of five inter-related elements – observing, doing, adopting, adapting, and replicating; and (c) spiriting (wisdom dispensing and ‘grey hair’ services) and social inclusion. The adaptability of the Kwawu complex, a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem can have concrete consequences for entrepreneurs globally. The eight elements, so determined, should be expanded and mainstreamed into education systems.
