A Cross-cultural Comparative Study of Entrepreneurial Traits Between Indigenous and Immigrant Entrepreneurs in Nairobi

Abstract

Entrepreneurship is an act of transforming innovation into economic goods, and of discovering new methods and resources. Entrepreneurs generate evolutionary change in economy and propel a country‟s future development. This thesis focuses on two groupings of Kenyan entrepreneurs (Those entrepreneurs of Kenyan origin and those Kenyan entrepreneurs of immigrant origin). The sub-groups for the foreign origin entrepreneurs are derived from the Arab, Indian and Somali communities. The research aims to determine the differences between both groups in terms of entrepreneurial traits. The main traits discussed include „Risk-Taking‟, „Need for Achievement‟ and „Culture‟. This study focussed on the correlation of Immigration and Entrepreneurship shed light on various aspects; to determine primary similarities and differences, and to identify the influencing factors between these similarities and differences. The uniqueness of the study is imperative to the Kenyan context as the literature review highlighted certain gaps in previous studies in respect to the Kenyan context. The research is a survey study pitting a sample size of 60 participants in Nairobi; 30 participants being native Kenyan entrepreneurs and 30 participants of immigrant Kenyan entrepreneurs. Primary data was collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, analyzed using descriptive statistics. The analyzed data was summarised and presented in the form of frequency and percentage distribution tables, as well as utilising a 5-point-Likert scale. The conclusion showed that certain differences and similarities between both groups exist. It also highlighted the impacts of the above stated traits on entrepreneurship. The influences and reasons (factors) that affect entrepreneurship as a result of the stated traits were also discussed. The conclusion stated any other imperative findings brought out by the study.