Investigating the corporate social responsibility of SMMEs in Middelburg, Mpumalanga

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perception of small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) regarding social corporate responsibility in Middelburg, Mpumalanga-South Africa. It is expected that the determination of CSR awareness and the implementation of CSR activities. The empirical investigation was preceded by literature survey. In particular, the literature review provided a discussion on the theoretical foundations of CSR that led to the identification of ethics and stakeholder theory as two fundamental upon which CSR rests. Examination of previous studies reveled the link developed between CSR and SMMEs in South Africa. The empirical results of the study presented that the concept CSR is commonly known by SMMEs owner-managers in Middelburg. The results indicate that 65% of the owner-managers are aware of the concept and some companies already have CSR policies that governs their organizations. Furthermore, the results indicated 75% of the respondents agree with drivers and barriers highlighted in literature and design questionnaire. This is an indication that the main drivers and barriers for the implementation of CSR activities are also applicable in SMMEs that operate in Middelburg. This is considered a good indicator in sense that Local Municipality must seize the opportunity in ensuring that SMMEs do engage and implement CSR activities. This in turn will assist alleviating poverty and increase the sustainability of these SMMEs. However, the study revealed that there's still a need to embark on serious CSR training and knowledge sharing process by NGO's and Chamber of Commerce. Big companies and Government should also encourage SMMEs to embrace in creating enabling environment for SMMEs to engage in CSR activities.