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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Enterprise Clusters in Kenya: Urban Production, Upgrading Strategies and Joint Action
Author:McCormick, DorothyISNI
Year:2001
Periodical:Africa Insight
Volume:31
Issue:1
Period:March
Pages:3-11
Language:English
Geographic term:Kenya
Subjects:small enterprises
Development and Technology
Urbanization and Migration
Economics and Trade
Abstract:Significant benefits are theoretically available to businesses operating in clusters. Yet most African clusters remain at a very low level of development. This paper uses case studies of five urban clusters in Kenya to explore the reason for this. The clusters are located in three urban centres: in Nairobi (3), Mombasa and Kakamega. The paper examines the upgrading strategies adopted by the clusters and the strategy shortfalls. It shows that, despite the fact that the underlying causes of many cluster problems are beyond their control, cluster firms are not powerless. Producers must update design, introduce new products, get products to the market cheaply and efficiently, and search for new market outlets. Many of the deeper problems facing medium and small enterprises are caused by weak or missing institutions that can only be addressed by concerted government action. Notes, ref.
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