International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Review

This study proposes to inquire into the performance of micro and small livestock enterprises (MSLEs) in North Eastern Kenya. Specifically the study proposes to examine how the performance of MSLEs are influenced by entrepreneurial behavior and selected social and economic institutions variables. The study is based on several empirical studies, literature review and conceptual framework. The study is anchored on Bricolage, effectuation, resource based view and institutional theories. Bricolage and effectuation theories of entrepreneurship unlike causation help to provide acceptable explanation for how entrepreneurs successfully overcome the challenges of resources. Institution and resources theories help to provide well grounded explanation as to why some firms perform better than others or some enterprises fail altogether. Policy implication of the study was derived from the fact that 73% of Kenya is arid and semi-arid lands, suitable for livestock rearing. Studies have consistently demonstrated the importance of micro and small enterprises (MSE) to the economies of developed and developing countries. MSEs can complement the efforts of the state to achieve economic growth, social stability, employment creation, equitable distribution of goods and services, poverty reduction in rural and urban areas.