Contributions of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Toward Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals in Kenya: A Systematic Review of Literature

The catalytic role played by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) toward economic development has been widely recognized globally. Through these enterprises, entrepreneurship and innovation are boosted, thus improving the lives of individuals. This paper set out to review the available literature on SMEs’ contribution toward achieving Kenya’s sustainable development goals. This research review gives a systematic and detailed summary of evidence and future research directions. Existing literature from reliable research articles, institutional reports, and policy documents was reviewed from 2012 to 2022. The paper established that most SMEs are flexible and dynamic, putting them in a better position to effectively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) monitored by the United Nations (UN). The enterprises have been recognized as key engines in attaining SDGs through poverty alleviation, income generation, and boosting the living conditions of citizens. However, most SMEs operating in Kenya’s emerging economies are still informal, limiting their long-term sustainability and meaningful contributions toward achieving SDGs. These enterprises are still grappling with a number of challenges that slow down their contributions toward attaining SDGs. Key stakeholders need to put in place comprehensive policy measures that can assist the enterprises in overcoming the various challenges they face.