Determinants of Effective Leadership in the Context of Zimbabwean SMEs

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have been found to contribute immensely to economic growth in many countries throughout the world. Although SMEs can be a solution to the socio-economic challenges that have bedevilled Zimbabwe for a long period of time, such potential is militated by high failure rate blamed largely on leadership challenges. If SMEs are to survive and achieve sustainable success, much emphasis should be focused on engendering effective leadership. The study sought to identify the determinants of effective leadership in the context of Zimbabwean SMEs. Quantitative research employing a survey strategy was conducted. Primary data was collected from 241 participants from Bulawayo’s Central Business Area, chosen using proportional stratified sampling. The study found that ubuntu, culture and traditional leadership were positively correlated to effective leadership while history of the country and stage of economic development of the country were negatively correlated to effective leadership. The study concluded that the determinants of effective leadership in the context of Zimbabwean SMEs are ubuntu, culture, history of the country and stage of economic development of the country. Leaders of Zimbabwean SMEs are encouraged to lead in line with the philosophy of ubuntu. They should also value group solidarity and good social and personal relations.