Corporate social reponsibility (CSR) engagement by Zimbabwean small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

This study examines corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement by Zimbabwean SMEs through their practices and procedures. A qualitative approach was adopted, involving 16 in-depth interviews with key decision makers of information and communication technology (ICT) SMEs in Zimbabwe. The study found that, while the role and importance of CSR is appreciated, largely from an altruistic perspective, this understanding by SMEs is fragmentary and incomplete. Selection and execution of CSR activities are ad hoc, unstructured and lack dedicated budgets while decision-making rests solely with the CEO whose upbringing, values and personality play a defining role in this process. Potential benefits from CSR activities in terms of business visibility, turnover or profitability remain unknown or low on the order of priorities. The study presents useful insights on CSR characteristics by SMEs, especially from a developing world context.