Abstract

The study explores the factors influencing entrepreneurship development in Malawi, with Blantyre city as the case study. Additionally, it investigates the relationship between education and entrepreneurial success, along with identifying the problems and barriers hindering potential entrepreneurs from initiating new ventures or enhancing existing businesses. Data for the study were collected through questionnaires distributed to respondents in Blantyre, one of Malawi's most populous cities. A sample of 30 respondents was selected using a simple random sampling method, and the data were analyzed using SPSS software, incorporating descriptive statistics. The results reveal that the main factors affecting entrepreneurial development in Malawi include education and training, inadequate funding and creative ideas, and government policies, all identified as constraints to entrepreneurship development. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate a strong relationship between education and entrepreneurship development. Lastly, the study concludes that bureaucracy and ineffective implementation of government policies stifle entrepreneurial development. Recommendations include urging the government to review its policies aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial activity due to their found ineffectiveness. Additionally, restructuring the education system, specifically targeted at entrepreneurial development, is suggested to align it with successful models observed globally. Lastly, minimizing bureaucracies in government departments meant to enhance entrepreneurial development is recommended.

Key words: Entrepreneurship, small businesses, entrepreneurship development, entrepreneurs.