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Research Proposal 2022 New

Business Research (University of Dar es Salaam)

Studocu is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university

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COVID – 19 PANDEMIC AND ITS IMPACTS ON MICRO AND

SMALL BUSINESSES IN DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA.

(A Case of Kinondoni District)

S/N NAMES REGISTRATION No.

1 KIBAMBA, SALUM I. 2021 - 06 - 00318
2 KOMBE, HAPPINESS I. 2021 - 06 - 01357
3 CHACHA, DEBORA SIMON 2021 - 06 - 02524
4 KWAI, LILIAN LUCIAN 2021 - 06 - 01631
5 RWEYEMAMU, ASIMWE L 2021 - 06 - 01476
6 KADWA, GEORGE PHILIP 2021 - 06 - 01596

MSc. Business Administration (MBA) Research proposal

University of Dar Es Salaam
May 2022

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE..............................................................................................................................1
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
1.1 Background of the study.................................................................................1
1.2 Statement of the Problem........................................................................................3
1.3 Research Objective..........................................................................................3
1.3.1 General Objective......................................................................................3

1.3.2 Specific Objectives..............................................................................................3

1.4 Research Questions.........................................................................................4

1.5 Significance of the Research...........................................................................4
1.6 Scope and Limitation of the study.................................................................4
CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................5
LITERATURE REVIEW.................................................................................................................5
2.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................5
2.2 Conceptual Framework..................................................................................5
2.3 Theoretical Framework...........................................................................................6
2.4 Empirical Studies.....................................................................................................7
2.5 The concept of COVID – 19 Pandemic..................................................................7
2.5.1 Symptoms of COVID – 19 Pandemic.................................................................8

2.5.2 Preventions of COVID – 19 Pandemic...............................................................9

2.6 The Concept of Micro and Small Businesses in Tanzania....................................9

2.6.1 Role of Micro and Small Businesses in Tanzania.............................................10

2.7 Challenges facing Micro and Small Businesses during COVID – 19 Eras.......10
2.8 Impacts of COVID – 19 on Micro and Small Business.......................................12
2.9 Possible Mitigation Measures to minimize the Impacts of COVID – 19 on Micro and
Small Businesses...........................................................................................................14
CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................................................16
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY..................................................................................................16
3.1 Introduction............................................................................................................16

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3.2 Research Approach................................................................................................16

3.3 Research Design.....................................................................................................16
3.4 Study Area...............................................................................................................16
3.5 Population, Sample, and Sampling techniques...................................................17
3.5.1 Target Population...............................................................................................17

3.5.2 Sample and Sampling procedure.......................................................................17

3.6 Data Collection Method.........................................................................................17

3.7 Primary Source.......................................................................................................18
3.7.1 Questionnaire Method.......................................................................................18

3.7.2 Unstructured Interview Method........................................................................18

3.8 Secondary Source...................................................................................................19

3.9 Data Analysis Procedure........................................................................................19
3.10 Validity and Reliability of the Research Instruments.......................................19
3.10.1 Validity of the Research Instruments...............................................................19

3.10.2 Reliability of the Research Instruments..........................................................19

3.11 Ethical Consideration and Procedures...............................................................19

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................20
APPENDIX ONE..........................................................................................................................22
I: Work Plan.................................................................................................................22
II: Financial Arrangements.........................................................................................22

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

According to World Health Organization (WHO), A Pandemic is an epidemic occurring

worldwide, or over a very wide area, crossing international boundaries and usually affecting a
large number of people. The world has been through several Pandemics since then, ten of the
most famous Pandemics include; the Antonine Plague (165 AD – 180 AD), The Black Death
(1347 – 1352), Small Pox Pandemic (1870 – 1874), Cholera (1871 – 1824), Russian Flu of 1889
(1889 – 1890), Spanish Flu (1981 – 1919), H3N2 Pandemic (1968), HIV/AIDS (1981), SARS
(2002 – 2004) and the current COVID -19 Pandemic (2019 – current). Pandemics tend to have
negative impacts on health, economies, regional stability, and sometimes even national security
due to the loss of manpower, For Instance, the Spanish Flu of 1918 is considered to be the
deadliest Pandemic ever to have hit the world, it infected 1/3 of the world’s population and killed
approximately 50 million people worldwide. The outbreak of many Pandemics is associated with
the increased interactions between humans and animals through breeding, hunting, and global
trade activities (Qui et al., 2017; Piret & Boivin., 2021)1.

On March 26, 2020, Tanzania reported the first imported case of COVID -19, over two weeks
after the World Health Organization (WHO) proclaimed the new coronavirus (COVID – 19)
outbreak a worldwide pandemic (Cucinotta & Vanelli., 2020; Tarimo & Wu., 2020). COVID -19
is a health problem that causes health crises, but it also causes personal, economic, and societal
problems. It serves people from various walks of life, including those poor, the elderly, those
with disabilities, youth, and indigenous people2. Behravesh (2020) highlighted that COVID – 19
caused an economic shock three times worse than the 2008 financial crisis in terms of yearly
GDP reduction, albeit not as severe as the Great Depression of the 1930s, which put the world
economy into a deep but mercifully brief recession. Although others believe that lockdown has

1World Atlas. 10 Pandemics Throughout History. Viewed on: 13 th May 2022. Available at: 10 Pandemics
Throughout History - World Atlas.
2United Nations. Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Everyone Included: Social Impact of COVID – 19.
Viewed on: 13th May 2022. Available at: Everyone Included: Social Impact of COVID-19 | DISD (un.org).

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damaged economies, these arguments are flawed because nations such as Sweden and Tanzania
have experienced enormous economic losses despite never being placed under lockdown.
COVID – 19 did not spare any corner of the world, and it affected practically every population.

According to Engidaw (2022), micro and small enterprises are the backbones of every economy,
and their fortification has never been more crucial than it is now, thanks to COVID-19's global
impact. Since the outbreak of the COVID – 19 Pandemic across the world, small enterprises all
around the world have suffered and continue to suffer. Small companies with insufficient capital
investment plunged into economic shock, and it is quite doubtful that they would recover from
this shock in the short term due to the virus that has afflicted the global economy. A restricted
national and international movement, absolute lockdown and suspension of commercial activity,
and border-to-border movement restrictions have all contributed to the decline of most small
firms, particularly in developing nations (Enesi & Ibrahim, 2021).

Lakuma & Sunday (2020) elaborated that, micro and small companies have been hit harder in
developing countries than medium and big corporations. Moreover, Factory closures and supply-
chain disruptions with China, the EU, and the US have all contributed to and have accelerated
the decline of small enterprises in developing countries. Lower demand, financial difficulties,
particularly in obtaining bank loans because they are already considered at high risk of business
failure, and increased operating expenses in implementing preventive measures and in logistics
and transportation of goods when importing are some of the other factors that have contributed to
the struggle and failure of small businesses in developing countries3.

To address the consequences of the COVID – 19 Pandemic on small enterprises in developing

nations, such as Tanzania, authorities should provide liquidity interventions to assist businesses
in managing urgent liquidity issues, reducing layoffs, and avoiding firm closures and
bankruptcies. The government may also explore lowering tax rates, lowering taxable income,
providing tax credits, and providing tax refunds to free up more cash for firms. Furthermore, the
government should settle any outstanding debts against government supply. Commercial banks
should explore proactively providing MSMEs with emergency loans with repayment flexibility
(Lakuma & Sunday, 2020).

3 The International Trade Center’s 2020 SME Competitiveness Outlook. Africa: Assessing the COVID-19 Impact
on SMEs and Preparing for a New Normal - allAfrica.com

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1.2 Statement of the Problem

World economies have seen a shock three times worse than the 2008 financial crisis in terms of
yearly GDP decline since the inception of COVID – 19, with micro and small businesses being
the most impacted in developing countries like Tanzania. Factory closures and supply chain
disruptions, mainly in China, the EU, and the US, are the main causes. Reduced demand for
goods and services, financial difficulties, and greater operating expenses are all reasons that
contributed to the fall of micro and small businesses in developing countries throughout COVID
– 19 eras (Behravesh, 2020; Lakuma & Sunday, 2020).

1.3 Research Objective

1.3.1 General Objective

To evaluate COVID – 19 Pandemic and its related impacts to micro and small businesses in Dar
Es Salaam, Tanzania.

1.3.2 Specific Objectives

i. To assess COVID – 19 Pandemic related challenges to micro and small businesses in Dar
Es Salaam, Tanzania.
ii. To examine impacts of COVID – 19 Pandemic on micro and small businesses in Dar Es
Salaam, Tanzania.
iii. To suggest possible mitigation measures to minimize the impacts of COVID – 19 on
micro and small businesses in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.

1.4 Research Questions

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(i) What COVID – 19 Pandemic related challenges that micro and small businesses are
facing during in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania?
(ii) What are the impacts of COVID – 19 Pandemic on micro and small businesses in Dar Es
Salaam, Tanzania?
(iii) What are the possible mitigation measures to minimize the impacts of COVID – 19 on
micro and small businesses in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania?

1.5 Significance of the Research

The outcomes of this research will enable in comprehending the significant issues faced during
the COVID – 19 eras in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, and their repercussions on micro and small
businesses. This research is expected to broaden the knowledge of the community in Dar Es
Salaam, Tanzania, on how to proceed during pandemics and what possible mitigation measures
to implement to minimize their impacts on micro and small businesses in Dar Es Salaam,
Tanzania.

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the study

Geographically, the research will be undertaken solely in Tanzania's Dar Es Salaam region, as it
is the most severely impacted region of the country, according to the Ministry of Health, and
home to the majority of micro and small businesses due to extreme regional integration. Not only
that, but also to have a reasonable research project that can be accomplished on time and within
budget, despite existing restrictions such as data availability, time, and money. In terms of time,
this research will cover a maximum time as allocated by the University of Dar Es Salaam
Business School and the limitation of this research is that it is restricted to micro and small
businesses located in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania only.

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CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

A literature review is essentially a search of textbooks, journals, papers, theses, or any other
written materials connected to the study problem or topic at hand. This section referenced
numerous written pieces of literature that were used before and were listed in the research's
reference list in the appendix.

2.2 Conceptual Framework

This research work will encompass three aspects in establishing the conceptual framework; the
independent variable (COVID – 19 Pandemic), the dependent variable (Micro and Small
Businesses), and mediating variables (Capital, Work Place Environment, KSAs, Culture,
Policies). Consider the below visual representation: -

Independent Variable Dependent Variables

KHBI Micro and Small Businesses

COVID – 19  Street Vendors
Pandemic  Freelancers
 Arts, Entertainment and Crafts

Mediating Variables

 Capital
 Work Place Environment
 KSAs, Culture, Policies

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The conceptual framework depicts exactly what the study explains, that is; the independent
variable (COVID – 19 Pandemic) influences the mediating variables (Capital, Work Place
Environment, KSAs, Culture, Policies) an in turn it affects the dependent variable (Micro and
Small Businesses such as; Street Vendors, Freelancers). For Example, as a result of COVID – 19
Pandemic the world economies experienced a shock that resulted to lack of finances, change in
policies which in turn affected the day-to-day activities of the micro and small businesses; some
dying and others left in a poor condition.

2.3 Theoretical Framework

This research work will utilize the biological theories of Aging. According to Pathath (2017),
there are numerous theories of aging; to mention few; The Stochastic Theories, The Programmed
Theories, The Neuroendocrine Theory, the membrane theory of aging, The Hayflick Limit
Theory, The Mitochondrial Decline Theory, The Cross-Linking Theory. This research work will
base its discussion on the stochastic theories (damage theory of aging) also known as the “wear
and tear theory” which claims that cells that comprise organs eventually wear out due to use or
exposure to the environment, and when the cells die, the body dies. That is; the micro and small
businesses once exposed to external environment overtime with no proper measures to assist
them to cope with challenges, the core components of the business will shake and eventually
result to death of the micro and small businesses. Although this research work does not support
the context from the Aging Theory that the micro and small businesses must die at the end
regardless. This study believes that the micro and small businesses are established to survive as
per the accounting concept of going concern, thus, proper policies should be put forward to help
them cope with global epidemics (Pandemics) and other associated issues as they contribute
massively to the socio – economic development of the country.

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2.4 Empirical Studies

Many research works have been conducted in Tanzanian context and at the global level
pertaining COVID – 19 Pandemic and its associated impacts on business sector. This research
work will narrow down the context and base its focal of discussion on micro and small
businesses as described by URT (2003). Little has yet been revealed concerning the matter of
discussion.

Lakuma. P. and Sunday. N. (2020) performed research on the impact of COVID – 19 on micro,
small, and medium-sized businesses in Uganda. According to the study's findings, the majority
of small and medium-sized businesses, particularly those in manufacturing, have seen a
significant decrease in access to inputs, implying a risk of overreliance on international rather
than regional or domestic supply chains for raw materials and intermediates. This study
encourages enterprises, particularly SMEs, to investigate the possibilities of regional or local
value and supply chains in order to stabilize their input sources while also conserving precious
foreign cash.

A Research conducted by Kunene, L. (2020) on The Impact of COVID – 19 on Small and Micro
Enterprises in South Africa discovered that many small businesses are unable to keep up. They
lack the infrastructure and market to justify recruiting staff, and in certain cases, they lack the
maturity necessary to be strong firms. She went on to say that black-owned businesses struggled
much more than white-owned businesses. That is to say, the racial narrative has gained center
stage, owing to the inability of key government departments to explain and offer information to
the public.

2.5 The concept of COVID – 19 Pandemic

According to World Health Organization (WHO), Coronavirus disease (COVID - 19) is an

infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The majority of persons who are infected
with the virus have mild to moderate respiratory symptoms and recover without treatment. Some
people, though, will get seriously sick and require medical help. The aged, as well as people with
underlying medical disorders including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic lung disease, or

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cancer, are more vulnerable to a serious sickness. COVID-19 can make anybody sick, resulting
in serious illness or death.

The best way to avoid and slow down transmission is to be well-informed about the illness and
how the virus spreads. To protect yourself and others against infection, keep at least one meter
away from others, wear a well-fitting mask, and wash your hands or use an alcohol-based rub
often. Vaccination is another important technique to consider if you want to slow the spread of
coronavirus illness (COVID – 19).

Coughing, sneezing, speaking, singing, and breathing can spread the virus in small liquid
particles from an infected person's mouth or nose. These particles range in size from larger
respiratory droplets to tiny aerosols. It is recommended that sick persons stay at home and isolate
themselves until they recover.

2.5.1 Symptoms of COVID – 19 Pandemic

COVID-19 has varied effects on different persons. The majority of infected persons will
experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without the need for hospitalization.

Most Common Symptoms Less Common Symptoms Serious Symptoms

(a) Fever (a) Sore throat (a) Difficulty breathing

or shortness of
breath
(b) Cough (b) Headache aches and pains (b) Loss of speech or
mobility, or
confusion
(c) Tiredness (c) Diarrhoea (c) Chest pain.
(d) Loss of taste or smell (d) Rash on the skin, or
(e) Discolouration of fingers or Toe
red
(f) or irritated eyes.

Figure 2.1: Symptoms of COVID – 19 Pandemic

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2.5.2 Preventions of COVID – 19 Pandemic

To prevent infection and to slow transmission of COVID-19, do the following:

 Get vaccinated when a vaccine is available to you.

 Stay at least 1 meter apart from others, even if they don’t appear to be sick.
 Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible or when in poorly
ventilated settings.
 Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.
 Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or clean them with an alcohol-based hand
rub.
 Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
 If you feel unwell, stay home and self-isolate until you recover.

2.6 The Concept of Micro and Small Businesses in Tanzania

According to URT (2003), Micro businesses in Tanzania employ up to four employees, most of
whom are family members, and have a capital of less than Tshs. 5.0 million. The bulk of micro-
businesses is in the unorganized sector. Small businesses are usually structured businesses with 5
to 49 workers and capital investments ranging from Tshs. 5.0 million to Tshs. 200 million. See
the table below: -

Capital Investment in
Category Employees
Machinery (Tshs)

Micro Enterprises 1-4 Up to 5 mils.

Small Enterprises 5 – 49 Above 5 mil. to 200 mils.

Medium Enterprises 50 – 99 Above 200 mils. to 800 mils.

Large Enterprises 100+ Above 800 mils.

Figure 2.2: SMEs Category in Tanzania

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According to the Informal Sector of 1991, micro-enterprises operating in the informal sector
alone had about 1.7 million firms employing nearly 3 million people or roughly 20% of
Tanzania's labor force.

2.6.1 Role of Micro and Small Businesses in Tanzania

MSEs are the backbone of every country's economy since they contribute significantly to its
annual GDP. Some of the major roles of MSEs in Tanzania are highlighted hereunder.

 They contribute to long-term economic prosperity.

 They are a source of employment generation

 They facilitate increasing trade

 They contribute to the development of entrepreneurial skills

 They contribute to the growth of export earnings.

Generally, all businesses begin as a small business or a small organization started by a single
person (s). MSEs development is considered a means of achieving broader socio-economic
goals, such as poverty alleviation.

2.6 Challenges facing Micro and Small Businesses during COVID – 19 Eras

According to Patrida (2020), The COVID-19 epidemic has had a significant and rapid impact on
nearly everyone's way of life throughout the planet. It drove them to distance themselves from
others, wash their hands more frequently, and become accustomed to wearing masks.

Small companies and COVID-19 have an obvious relationship, especially because authorities
compelled non-essential firms to close temporarily and demanded that all others implement new
health and safety regulations. Many small businesses were already facing difficulties before the
epidemic, and COVID-19 simply made things worse. The issues faced by micro and small firms
throughout the COVID – 19 Eras are: -

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 Shortages in Cash Flow

Micro and small enterprises tend to face cashflow shortages as they tend to run out of balances
and face difficulties in obtaining bank loans. This has led them into financial struggles
throughout the COVID – 19 Pandemic Eras. The Pandemic has disrupted the micro and small
enterprises' cash flows leaving them in a swamp of financial problems.

 Increased Owner Stress and Anxiety

COVID – 19 Pandemic did not only disrupt economies and cash flows but also infringed fear in
micro and small business owners. Business operations slowed down, Factories closed and even
the normal supply chain was disrupted this brought about high stress and worries to the business
owners as they had invested a lot in their businesses just to come and witness total loss at this
level as a result of COVID – 19 Pandemic.

 Decreased Revenue

Some businesses were shut down and other operations slowed down by a very high magnitude,
in return decreasing the enterprises' revenue and increasing an enterprises' expenses. Another
contributing factor is the disruption of the supply chain linkages worldwide.

 Supply Chain Difficulties Hindering Operations

Amongst other challenges, disruptions of supply chain management in the world, especially in
China, the EU, and, the US created difficulties for micro and small enterprises in terms of
undertaking business operations.

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2.7 Impacts of COVID – 19 on Micro and Small Business

Coronavirus has had a detrimental influence on enterprises and sectors worldwide. Countries all
across the world have been under lockdown for at least a few months to slow the spread of the
virus from March 2020. Even when the enterprises and stores opened, there were several
limitations on their operations, resulting in significant losses for the owners. The silver lining is
that the COVID 19 epidemic has not had a detrimental impact on all enterprises. The effects of
coronavirus on MSEs are hereunder presented4.

 Shortage of labor

People have been compelled to stay home and avoid going to work because of the epidemic, and
laborer have been no exception. When it comes to white-collar workers, many of them have the
option of working from home and delivering the same outcomes as they did in the office.

However, things are not the same for laborer, since there is no virtual job in their industry,
resulting in a labor shortage as workers have no choice but to stay at home to avoid contracting
the virus. Because laborer is an important element of every sector, this scarcity has impacted
firms at all levels.

 Shortage in Supply

Businesses found it difficult to obtain necessary materials because of the lockdown in many
regions. Even though certain limitations have been lifted, supplies are still being delayed in
reaching their destinations. This has impacted enterprises that used to import raw materials from
other nations, as they are unable to develop new goods without them.

 Shortage in Demand

In some industries, there has been a demand shortfall, just as there has been a supply shortage.
People's behaviors have altered as a result of the pandemic's shift in lifestyle and numerous
limitations, which has had an impact on demand.
4 Euro Weekly News (2021). COVID-19: Impacts on business and solutions. Viewed on: 13th May 2022. Available
at: https://euroweeklynews.com/2021/01/19/covid-19-impacts-on-business-and-solutions/

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For example, many eateries have closed or are only open for a short time owing to fears of the
virus spreading and regulatory limitations. Many customers are avoiding restaurants due to
safety worries, resulting in a loss for the hotel business. This has also resulted in a demand deficit
for other food commodities such as milk, eggs, and other dairy products, hurting other sectors.

 Loss of Business

In many situations, coronavirus has had less of an impact on the business than government
regulations. Businesses that do not deal with basic commodities are still prohibited in several
nations.

Although this sort of restriction is vital for public safety, it has had a severe impact on many
firms, resulting in a loss of revenue. Coaching institutions, for example, have been shuttered for
the students' safety. Institutes that cannot provide online tutoring, on the other hand, are finding it
difficult to handle.

On the other hand, COVID – 19 had some advantages, for instance, due to the travel
restrictions, there won’t be much foreign travel, and companies will rely more on Skype and
Zoom, resulting in saving on travel tickets. Moreover, as many employees are getting the option
of working from home, companies no more have to spend on the cleaning, transportation, in-
office equipment, etc. resulting in some savings for both the employees as well as employers.

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2.8 Possible Mitigation Measures to minimize the Impacts of COVID – 19 on Micro and
Small Businesses

Covid-19 Pandemic has exposed the inadequacies, allowing the powers that be to alter research
and methods to build a robust and sustainable MSE business. Following are some proposals
based on the current scenario that may assist enterprises and government in charting MSEs' post-
Covid-19 course as highlighted by Kunene (2020).

 Innovation

MSEs who are continually inventive will undoubtedly survive post-Covid-19. Innovation should
no longer be a subsection that exists only in company plan documents but is never put into effect.
This means that a firm must adapt to the attitude of entrepreneurship, which welcomes change
and the need for innovation to go forward, actually exist and be sustainable. SMEs failure to do
so will result in their extinction. Bailouts will not always be available to everyone, but it does not
mean that the situation is hopeless. The desire for more innovation-driven businesses also
implies that social challenges require a multidisciplinary approach, with creative industries
included and/or collaborated with as needed.

 Virtual Teams

Virtual Teams will have to become the new standard for most organizations. Many companies
continue to operate throughout the Covid-19 outbreak without sending staff into the workplace.
For some, physical infrastructure and resources are becoming obsolete. There should be no
physical office where it is not required. There was a gradual increase in virtual PAs and
functional managers before Covid-19. Examining your organization's structure to identify what
may be done remotely has merit.

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 Business Compliance

Small and microbusinesses, as well as creative sector companies, must guarantee that they begin
to comply with the many business criteria. Being obedient comes in helpful even though it isn't
necessary for some. Having said that, this should prompt the government to evaluate its
commercial compliance procedures as soon as possible. These must be simplified. There is also a
need to consider how they may profit from the billion-dollar informal economy, which is not
taxed (save for VAT) and will very certainly never be taxed using current tax methods.

 Economic Indicators for the Informal Sector

Economic plans and judgments are based on what we know about the calculations. The economic
indices we employ are, in fact, faulty. They utterly disregard the customer who shops in this
sector for groceries and harms the micro trader who fills that need. We've become accustomed to
ignoring them and the billions they represent in our calculations.

 Cooperation and Consortiums

The capacity to collaborate is one of the variables that contribute to a greater degree of
performance than their local peers. It accounts for opportunity costs because it was purchased in
bulk and solved issues as a group.

 Training and Development

This should go beyond 'how to develop a business plan,' and training should be thoroughly
overhauled. The training programs' outcomes should be translated into practical plans and
strategies, with business compliance completion being included in the training. Innovative,
creative thinking must be fostered as early as elementary school classrooms to ensure that it
becomes ingrained in how our society makes decisions, especially in times of crisis. Failure to do
so would almost certainly result in a society that seeks government assistance in 100 years when
mankind faces a pandemic that forces the closure of enterprises because its models are not
strong, adaptive, or sensitive to the environment and are not sustainable.

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

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3.1 Introduction

This chapter depicts the procedures that were used in conducting this study. The research
strategy, design, and places where the study will be done, as well as its justification, are all
explained in this chapter. The chapter also displays the target population, sampling process,
sample size, and participant selection criteria. After that, the chapter goes into detail on the
methods for acquiring information and evaluating data. Finally, the chapter discusses the study's
validity, reliability, and ethical concerns.

3.2 Research Approach

This research study will utilize a mixed-method approach, that is, both qualitative and
quantitative approaches will be used. Initially, open-ended questionnaires will be distributed to
collect the numerical or quantitative data and thereafter open-ended interviews will be conducted
to collect the narrative or qualitative data. According to Creswell (2014), this method is usually
preferred due to the core assumption that it provides a more complete understanding of the
research problem than either approach when used alone.

3.3 Research Design

The descriptive design method will be used by the means of interviewing and administering the
questionnaires to the selected sample of micro and small businesses. The major purpose of using
this type of research design is to be able to describe the state of micro and small businesses as
they exist. Therefore, in this research study, a descriptive research design will be used in
preference to the rest as it will enable the collection of relevant evidence with minimal
expenditure of effort, time and money.

3.4 Study Area

The research will be undertaken solely in Tanzania's Dar Es Salaam region, as it is the most
severely impacted region of the country, according to the Ministry of Health, and home to the
majority of micro and small businesses due to extreme regional integration.

3.5 Population, Sample, and Sampling techniques

3.5.1 Target Population

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A study population refers to a group of individuals, objects or items from which samples are
taken for measurement. Also, the population can be used to mean the larger group from which
the sample is taken. An effective study population is that which is diverse, accessible and well
equipped with knowledge on the research topic (Kombo & Tromp, 2014). This study will focus
on COVID – 19 Pandemic and its impacts on micro and small businesses in Dar-es-Salaam,
Tanzania. Micro and small business owners in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania is our prospective
targeted population in this study. Thus, the sample will be selected from this intended population.

3.5.2 Sample and Sampling procedure

Sampling design is the process of selecting a sample from a population. It is subdivided into;
random or probability sampling design, non-random or non-probability sampling design and
mixed design. This particular study will utilize probability sampling; According Kombo &
Tromp (2014), this method is suitable once the researcher aims at drawing conclusions or making
predictions affecting the population as a whole.

3.6 Data Collection Method

In this research study, data will be collected mainly through two major sources namely; the
primary source and a secondary source. Data will be collected taking into consideration study
population characteristics, issues such as experiences, and age structure. Based on these two
major approaches to gathering information data was then categorized into; primary data and
secondary data. Primary data which is also known as raw data was collected directly from the
respondents while secondary data was retrieved from already existing sources (Kumar, 2011;
Kombo & Tromp, 2014).

3.7 Primary Source

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Primary sources gathered information directly from the respondents. Purpose of the study,
resources availability, skills of the researcher and the intended quality of the data to be collected
provided the basis of the method to be used in collecting primary data. It will involve creating
new data and that information was collected from prior existing sources. Consider methods such
as; Questionnaires, Interviews, Focus Group discussion (FGD), Observation and experimental
studies. Variable of interest is usually identified when dealing with experimental studies as the
primary source of data (Kumar, 2011; Kombo & Tromp, 2014). In this study questionnaire
method and the Unstructured interview, Method will be used as the major sources of primary
data.

3.7.1 Questionnaire Method

A questionnaire is a written list of questions expected to be answered or filled in by the intended

respondents. It is very common that the questionnaires to be circulated to the respondents to fill
in and thereafter collected back for further procedures (Kumar, 2011; Kombo & Tromp, 2014).
This study will use the questionnaire method in gathering COVID – 19 Pandemic challenges and
their impacts on micro and small businesses since it is considered to be less expensive and offers
greater anonymity, can cover a wider area, and has no bias involved on the side of the researcher
and the respondents (Kumar, 2011; Kombo & Tromp, 2014).

3.7.2 Unstructured Interview Method

In this approach to interviewing neither are the specific questions to be asked nor is the range or
type of possible answers pre-defined (Kombo & Tromp, 2014). In this research study, the
unstructured interview method will be used since it's flexible, and no rigidity is displayed thus,
the respondents feel as if are part of the team, the free-response is involved, it allows the
interviewer to be responsive to individual differences and situational characteristics (Kombo &
Tromp, 2014).

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3.8 Secondary Source

In this research study, secondary sources involved gathering information concerning pandemic
related challenges and their impacts on micro and small businesses that pre-existed. The
information will neither be collected directly nor specifically from the field but rather through
perusing; Government or semi-government publications, earlier research, personal records, and
mass media. This method will be used as a matter of fact that it sharpens and deepens the
theoretical foundation of the study, it gives a researcher insight into what has already been done
in the selected field, pinpointing its strengths and weaknesses, it helps a researcher know what
additional information is needed in the study, it helps in developing a basis for analyzing and
interpreting data.

3.9 Data Analysis Procedure

Data analysis is an examination of the collected data from an experiment or a survey and making
crucial deductions and inferences. It depends upon the method used for data collection and the
purpose of the research study. Data collected will then be analyzed through manual analysis.
Statistical data analysis divided the methods for analyzing data into; exploratory and
confirmatory methods5 (Kumar, 2011; Kombo & Tromp, 2014). Through data analysis, data are
cleaned, coded and analyzed. This study will use both quantitative and qualitative analysis
methods to analyze numerical data from the questionnaires and narrative data from the
interviews respectively.

3.10 Validity and Reliability of the Research Instruments

3.10.1 Validity of the Research Instruments

3.10.2 Reliability of the Research Instruments

3.11 Ethical Consideration and Procedures

5 The exploratory Method usually aims in discovering what the data seems to be saying by using simple arithmetic and easy-to-draw pictures to
summarize the findings. It is mostly used in qualitative research. The confirmatory Method usually utilizes the concepts from probability theory
and tends to answer specific questions. It is usually applicable in quantitative research (Kombo & Tromp, 2014).

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REFERENCES

Creswell, J.W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods
Approaches, 4th Edition, Published by SAGE Publications, Inc., Los
Angeles, London, New Delhi, Singapore, Washington D.C, Printed in the
United States of America, ISSBN 978-1-4522-2609-5 (cloth), ISBN 978-
1-4522-2610-1 (pbk), 342 Pages.

Cucinotta D., & Vanelli M. (2020). WHO Declares COVID-19 a Pandemic. 19;91(1):157-160.
DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i1.9397. PMID: 32191675; PMCID:
PMC7569573.

Enesi. O. M., & Ibrahim. U. A. (2021). Effect of COVID – 19 Pandemic on the Performance of
Small and Medium Business Enterprises in Abuja - FCT, Nigeria. Open
Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 9 (5). Available at:
https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=111867

Kombo, D.K., & Tromp, D.L.A., (2014). Proposal and Thesis Writing; An Introduction, 14 th
Edition, Published by Paulines Publication Africa, ISBN: 9966-08-133-X,
Nairobi-Kenya, 168 Pages.

Kumar, R. (2011). Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners, 3 rd Revised

Edition, New Delhi, India, Los Angeles and Washington DC, USA,
London, United Kingdom, Published by SAGE Publications Pvt LTD.

Kunene, L. (2020). The Impact of COVID – 19 on Small and Micro Businesses in SA.
Entrepreneurship Opinion South Africa. Available at:
https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/836/203706.html

Lakuma. P. & Sunday. N. (2020). Africa in Focus: Impact of COVID – 19 on Micro, Small, and
Medium Businesses in Uganda. BROOKINGS. Available at: Impact of
COVID-19 on micro, small, and medium businesses in Uganda
(brookings.edu)

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Pathath, W. A. (2017). Theories of Aging. The International Journal of Indian Psychology. Vol. 4
(3). DOI: 10.25215/0403.142. Available at:
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Patrida, D. (2020). 7 COVID – 19 Struggles Small Businesses are Facing and How to Overcome
Them. Available at: https://due.com/blog/small-businesses-struggle-in-
pandemic/

Piret, J., & Boivin, G. (2021). Pandemics throughout history. Frontiers in Microbiology, 11:
631736.DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2020.631736. Available at:
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Qui, W., Rutherford, S., Mao, A., & Chu, C. (2017). The Pandemic and its Impacts. Health,
Culture, and Society. DOI:10.5195/hcs.2017.221. Available at:
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Tarimo C.S., & Wu J. (2020). The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Tanzania:
recommendations based on lessons learned from China. Trop Med Health.
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United Republic of Tanzania (2003). Ministry of Industry and Trade. Small and Medium
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https://www.publichealth.com.ng/world-health-organization-who-
pandemic-definition/. Viewed on: 12th May 2022.

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APPENDIX ONE

I: Work Plan

ACTIVITIES Y 2022 Y 2023

Proposal development and Approval May
Fieldwork June -
July
Data Analysis and report writing August
First Draft September
Second Draft October
Submission for Presentation at the departmental November
level
Final Draft December
Filling in the intention to submit the form
Submission for IE and EE December
IE and EE Working
IE and EE Working January - March
IE and EE Working January - March
Submission of examination reports by IE and EE
Approval of IE and EE results January – March
Approval of dissertation results April
Final Submission
Graduation May

II: Financial Arrangements

Item Category Amount

1 Transport Expenses 500,000/=
1,500,000/
2 Data Collection =
3 Printing and Photocopy 500,000/=
4 Data entry and coding 500,000/=
5 Editing Expense 500,000/=
6 Communication 500,000/=
4,000,000/
Total =

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