Influence of entrepreneural skills on the performance of the design sector: a case of jua kali artisans in kibera constituency, Nairobi county, Kenya

Abstract

The Research was conducted to investigate the influence of entrepreneurial skills on the performance of the informal design sector. A case of jua kali artisans in Kibera constituency, Nairobi County. The objectives of the research were; to establish how education, experience and attitudes influence business performance of the design sector. The methodology that was used in carrying out the research was survey and structured interviews. Qualitative and quantitative data was collected using questionnaires, in-depth interviews and observations. Findings of the study showed that 78% of the sample size had under gone some form of education which led to a positive conclusion that education influences business performance in the informal sector. Furthermore, the research revealed that experience is crucial for successful performance of businesses in the informal sector. Those artisans with some level of experience were regarded as better skilled in entrepreneurship and they were quick in learning new skills and tasks that improved business capabilities. In relation to entrepreneurial attitudes, the research showed that attitude matters a lot when doing a design business. On assessment of the research findings, the researcher was able to draw conclusions and recommendations. The researcher suggested areas for further research to be finance and government policy which affect or influence participation of design sector artisans in the informal sector.