Reexamining the unique features that foster the success of immigrant entrepreneurship in Africa: a systematic review

Abstract

Immigrant entrepreneurship plays a vital role in Africa’s socio-economic development, yet its unique success factors remain underexplored in the literature. This systematic review analyses the distinctive factors enabling immigrant entrepreneurs to thrive across African settings, integrating empirical findings and theoretical insights from 37 rigorously selected studies. Employing the PRISMA methodology, the study conducted a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed publications through a structured literature review process. The investigation established four principal African immigrant entrepreneurship dimensions: mindful, professional, unappealing-sectorial, and resilient. The study demonstrates how African immigrant enterprises drive economic expansion, generate employment, and foster cross-border connections despite facing systemic barriers including regulatory informality, discriminatory practices, and limited market access. Key results emphasize the importance of policy measures focused on improving financial access, credential validation, formalization of business networks, and inclusive economic participation. This research also presents a grounded model for African immigrant entrepreneurship which serves as a framework for comprehending immigrant-led business activities in Africa, offering practical guidance for stakeholders aiming to harness this sector's capacity for enduring economic progress and equitable development.