Small enterprise development in the Kwilu - Kwango subregions of Bandundu, Zaire

The study revealed the existence of rich and diversified raw materials (especially in Kwilu) which could with minimal capital investment and easily taught skills be turned into high-demand products. Seven small-scale, economically viable products or activities were specifically identified - soap, fish ponds, palm oil, sacks, carpentry, tanning, and soil-cement building blocks. Before small businesses can successfully begin operations, certain constraints - widespread corruption, weak management and business skills coupled with strong clan rights to products and profits, and high transportation costs and bottlenecks - should be examined. These constraints could be overcome by the provision of training and technical assistance in appropriate technologies and in business planning, management, and bookkeeping.