Strategies and Factors Influencing SME Sustainability : A Case Study of TSANG Company in Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the economy of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, these businesses are pivotal in sustaining the country's economic growth through job creation and alleviating poverty. Inasmuch as this fact stands, Congolese SMEs face a myriad of economic and political dynamics that intimidate their existence and essentially viability. The paper will highlight how TSANG, one of the prominent SMEs in Butembo, undertook strategies to remain competitive amid such a difficult environment and what would be some determinants of its sustainability. Guided by these following research questions : "What strategies does TSANG implement to ensure its sustainability ? " and "What factors influence the success of these strategies ? A qualitative and descriptive case study methodology was used, involving a literature review and semi-structured interviews with the company's manager. The study identified four main sustainability strategies : diversification, differentiation, long-term planning, and choice of financing method. Also, inside things like manager skills and worker motivation ; outside things such as stakeholder links and how fast you can get money all played big roles in whether these plans worked. The study wraps up by saying a mix of badly done plans and the skill to handle inside and outside factors is key for keeping SMEs in tough times. It suggests that to make their long-term success chances better and be more competitive, SMEs should work on building strong plans that deal with both their internal strengths and external challenges.