Insights into corporate social responsibility in small and medium enterprises in South Africa
Date
2022-03-03
Authors
Maome, Itumeleng Judith
Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Special Education
Abstract
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are recognised around the world for their contribution
to a country's social and economic growth. They are the fertile generators of economic growth
and development for South Africa. It has been recognised that one of the strategies that
contributes to the longevity and success of businesses is Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR). Hence, this study provides an insight into the influence of CSR on business growth
in South Africa.
Various scholars assert that CSR is more evident in major corporations with structured CSR
strategies. Such businesses have separate divisions dedicated to CSR initiatives. However,
CSR activities in SMEs in South Africa are still sketchy. They are based on the personal
judgement and beliefs of owners and managers. There is a lack of awareness of the advantages
of CSR in SMEs in South Africa. The lack of top management commitment has also been
identified as a barrier to SMEs participating in CSR in South Africa. Consequently, there is
more focus on the application of CSR in big corporations, thus neglecting SME participation
in this initiative.
It has thus been established that CSR remains a development tool that facilitates growth for
SMEs in South Africa. Not all CSR activities require businesses to spend millions on such
activities. SMEs may choose projects that are within their economic means. Hence, CSR
awareness campaigns are useful to assist SMEs to make their projects more explicit.
Description
Keywords
1303 Specialist Studies in Education, Corporate Social Responsibility, Economic development, Ethical responsibility, SMEs, South Africa, Sustainability
Citation
Maome, I.J. and Zondo, R.W.D. 2022. Insights into corporate social responsibility in small and medium enterprises in South Africa in South Africa. International Journal of Special Education. : 8244-8256 (13).