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The Misguided Faith in Entrepreneurship as a Solution to Unemployment

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Nyakundi Report

Newsroom 1 min read

This archive report was first published on 7 July 2019.

Published on July 7, 2019, by Scheaffer Okore, a renowned author, the article challenges the notion that entrepreneurship is the silver bullet to unemployment in Kenya.

When issues of high unemployment rates are discussed, entrepreneurship is frequently presented as the only answer. However, this response fails to acknowledge the multi-faceted nature of unemployment and the government's role in job creation.

Starting a business is a complex and often daunting task, especially for young people without resources. The process involves numerous impediments, including registration, clearance, tax, and various licenses, which can be overwhelming.

It is not the duty of aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure a favorable economic environment. Rather, it is the government's responsibility to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. This includes curbing unhealthy competition, prioritizing citizens, and shutting corruption loopholes that hinder small businesses from operating honestly.

The education system also plays a crucial role in perpetuating the myth that entrepreneurship is the only viable career path. By emphasizing entrepreneurship as the sole great outcome, we risk ignoring the importance of humanities, the arts, and the role of creatives in society.

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