Impact of Different Leadership Styles of CEOs on Business Performance of SMEs in East Africa: A Systematic Review of Literature

Abstract

This study attempts to review the prevailing body of literature on impacts of CEOs different leadership styles on business performance of SMEs in East Africa. The objective of this study is to identify the research trend in the area and issues that are currently addressed in East Africa so as to help interested researchers in the area. 130 relevant studies on the topic were systematically reviewed and the findings showed that, Asia has the leading number of studies published consistently within the past ten years followed by Europe and USA while Africa has the lowest number of studies. In addition, East Africa is among the regions which have the lowest number of studies in Africa. Most studies reviewed covered trade, service, and manufacturing industries. The findings varied from country to country and on the nature of the industry involved. Researchers in leadership and performance of SMEs are encouraged to bridge the research gaps established by this study such as researching in the particular area in industries and countries where no or few studies have been done. A special attention needs to be made in areas like East Africa and related regions which seem to have the lowest number of studies in the particular area.

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