Gender Dimensions of Enterprise in Uganda: A Systematic Review of the Literature, 2010–2024

This systematic review synthesises literature from 2010 to 2024 to analyse the gender dimensions of enterprise in Uganda, a critical context within Sub-Saharan Africa. It addresses the persistent problem of fragmented evidence regarding how gendered norms, institutional barriers, and socio-cultural factors collectively constrain women’s entrepreneurial activity. Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, a rigorous protocol was executed. This encompassed systematic searches of key databases, clear inclusion/exclusion criteria, dual screening, and quality assessment, resulting in a final corpus of studies for thematic synthesis. The analysis reveals that Ugandan women entrepreneurs navigate a complex landscape marked by pronounced challenges in accessing formal finance, productive assets, and strategic networks. Findings underscore the dual burden of domestic responsibilities, restrictive social norms, and a legal environment that, despite progressive policies, often inadequately supports women-led enterprises. Conversely, the review identifies significant adaptive strategies, including the innovative use of informal savings groups and digital platforms. The synthesis consolidates robust evidence to inform gender-responsive policy, arguing that advancing women’s enterprise requires interventions that move beyond access to capital to transform underlying institutional and socio-cultural constraints. This is critical for fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.