Youth Entrepreneurship as an Engine of Social Economic Development: A Case of Rubavu District in Rwanda

*Kalulu Ronald, Emmanuel Sebuhoro, Patrick Nizeyimana & Faustin Gapasi – University of Tourism, Technology and Business Studies
* Corresponding author: kaluluronald@gmail.com

Received June 28, 2018; Revised January 16, 2019; Accepted March 20, 2019

Abstract: Youth entrepreneurship is an important aspect of social economic development of any country. When carefully adopted and implemented, it can positively impact on social economic performance of communities. This study therefore investigated youth entrepreneurship as an engine of social economic development in Rubavu District in Rwanda. A sample of 313 respondents participated in the study through questionnaires and interview. Validity was observed and a test–retest reliability was done. Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.67 was obtained implying that all instruments were reliable. Data analysis were done using SPSS. In order to measure youth entrepreneurship, the study used youth livelihood indicators, community standards and improvements, innovations and creative ideas in communities, and availability of goods and services, which local people can purchase from. The study used an ordinal scale (a 5-point scale) to get answers from participants. The findings revealed the enablers of youth entrepreneurship as being: youth policies, education and training, family mentorship, access to startup capital and business mentorship, among others. The study stressed youth willingness to enter into entrepreneurship ventures in Rubavu district but most of them fear to start new businesses stating that it is very expensive. Basing on the conclusion, the study recommended a policy change to stimulate and empower the youth to start small businesses given the enormous benefits to the communities where they live.