Women entrepreneurship development and sustainable rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe

Purpose The main purpose of this research is to investigate factors influencing rural women entrepreneurship development and sustainable livelihoods in Manicaland province Zimbabwe. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative was conducted Data were collected through structured questionnaires from 400 entrepreneurs various sectors. participants vegetable vending, operating clothing flea markets cross border trading. self-administered questionnaire used collect data respondents. Structural equation modeling SmartPLS version 3 test the hypotheses. Findings study established that driven by financial factors, positive environmental psychological as well sociological for a livelihood. Research limitations/implications It clear if discovered challenges are not addressed, sustainability will remain dream. Practical implications came up with strategies improving activities. Future can be done other areas provinces avoid generalization challenges. Social Many hinder entrepreneurship. Major impediments comprises inadequate support government schemes, patriarchal societal structure community, lack relevant entrepreneurial knowledge manage businesses, collateral security access funding, time limitation or role conflict balance family pressures business. Originality/value recommends proper education training, supportive schemes network affiliation/connection sustain