Barriers to Youthful Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas of Ghana

Abstract

The study examined the barriers to youth entrepreneurship in rural areas of Ghana specifically the challenges encountered by youths who want to set-up their own businesses. The study collected both primary and secondary data using semi-structured questionnaires, interviews and review of empirical and theoretical literatures. Youths in Komenda, Edina, Eguafo, Abirem Municipal Assembly was the target population. Purposive sampling technique was applied to select 240 respondents. Descriptive statistics which involves simple percentage, graphical charts and illustrations was purposefully applied in data presentations and analysis. The findings of the study reveal youths perceive lack of capital, lack of skill, lack of support, lack of market opportunities and risk as the main obstacles to entrepreneurial intention. It is recommended that Ghanaian youths be equipped with entrepreneurial skills to move them to the next level of development.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Barriers, Youth, Resources, Solutions, KEEA District

JEL Classification: O15, O16