An investigation on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) business resilience during and after COVID -19 : a case study of Chongwe district in Zambia.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for businesses worldwide, particularly for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which constituted a significant portion of the global economy. This dissertation aimed to investigate the resilience strategies adopted by SMEs to navigate the disruptions caused by the pandemic and their subsequent recovery efforts. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, to gather comprehensive data on the experiences of SMEs across various sectors and regions. Quantitative analysis will focus on assessing the impact of COVID-19 on SMEs, including financial performance, operational changes, and adaptation strategies. Qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into the specific resilience mechanisms employed by SMEs, such as innovation, digital transformation, supply chain management, and government support utilization. Key findings contributed to the understanding of how SMEs have adapted to survive and thrive amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. Additionally, the research shed light on the role of government policies and support initiatives in facilitating SME resilience. The study's implications extended to policymakers, business leaders, and academia, offering valuable insights into building resilience in SMEs and enhancing their capacity to withstand future crises.