Resilience in Crisis: How Women Entrepreneurs in Sub-Saharan Africa Adapted and Pivoted Their Businesses to Survive the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted economies globally, posing significant challenges to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Women entrepreneurs, often disproportionately affected by economic shocks, faced unprecedented difficulties in sustaining their businesses. This study explores how women entrepreneurs in seven SSA countries adapted and pivoted their businesses to survive the pandemic, using a narrative inquiry approach to capture their lived experiences. Data were collected through focus group discussions with women entrepreneurs, providing insights into the strategies they employed to maintain business operations amid widespread disruptions. The authors’ findings reveal that women entrepreneurs demonstrated remarkable resilience by adopting innovative business models, leveraging community support networks and embracing digital tools to reach new markets. These women utilized social capital and collaborative efforts within their communities, turning challenges into opportunities. The study highlights the intersection of gender, entrepreneurship and resilience, showing how women navigated the dual pressures of business survival and increased domestic responsibilities. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial resilience in times of crisis, offering policy recommendations for supporting women entrepreneurs in future crises and beyond. By shedding light on the unique challenges and strategies of women-led businesses in SSA, the study underscores the importance of fostering gender-responsive policies and resources to ensure the sustainability of women’s economic contributions in the region.