Factors that limit the development, prototyping and adoption of informal innovations in Zimbabwe: Lessons for policymakers

Abstract

This study explored the obstacles that informal innovators encounter in product development, prototyping, commercialization and adoption of informal innovations in Zimbabwe. Altogether 20 informal innovators were purposively selected, interviewed and observed. Key findings are that the lack of knowledge of intellectual property rights stifle their innovation and creativity, as most innovators rely on copying designs of products that are already on the market. Their lack of knowledge of intellectual property protection rights and poor marketing platforms and strategies have limited the profits of informal innovators as they succumb to the predatory tendencies of large formal enterprises who purchase their products, repackage them, claim ownership and resell them for bigger profits. Informal innovators lack opportunities for appropriate training and most of their expertise is based on experience and on-the-job training. Due to their lack of support from financial institutions, universities and the private sector, informal businesses and innovations have experienced stunted growth, poor product quality and profit margins despite the existence of policies to promote and protect them. Appropriate incentives are needed for informal innovators, together with policy enforcement mechanisms and their integration with other institutions, such as the private sector and universities, to improve the development, adoption and the marketing of informal innovations.