THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZE ENTERPRISES IN CAMEROON

Tacham Gordon Jong, BBA

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The COVID-19 Pandemic has created challenging conditions for individuals all around the world. However, the impact may be more severe for those in Third World countries in dire situations and whose conditions may worsen if not considered. At the same time, this Pandemic impacts all aspects of life and society in general. This study specifically seeks to identify the effect of the COVID19 Pandemic on the performance of SMEs business in Cameroon and aims to provide recommendations on how these businesses can improve and perform effectively during this falling economy and the numerous challenges caused by the Pandemic. 300 SMEs were randomly selected, and well-structured interviews were scheduled that contained both close-ended and open-ended questions. Data collected were analysed with descriptive statistical tools, while the Probit regression model was used to analyse the effect of COVID-19 on SMEs. Findings show that the product differs by sector of activity. For instance, partial lockdown increases the likelihood of coping strategies, whereas total lockdown negatively influences the coping strategy. One of the policy implications of this study is the need to address palliative measures adopted by the state for the eventual Pandemic on SMEs in Cameroon. Many issues were raised which were not covered in this study. It is, therefore, necessary to consider them in future research work.

Keywords

Impact, Lockdown, COVID-19, Cameroon, SMEs, Economy, Business Performance

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 31. 3. 2022

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: doc. Ing. Vladimír Krepl, CSc.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Economics and Management

Master programme / field:
Economics and Management / Economics and Management